text:
There are two YouGov polls in the Sunday papers – one for the Sunday Times (tabs here) and one for the Sun on Sunday (tabs here). Voting intention figures are CON 33%, LAB 37%, LDEM 8%, UKIP 13% and CON 33%, LAB 36%, LDEM 8%, UKIP 14% respectively. The rest of the questions in the two polls mostly cover the state of the economy and the fuss over Birmingham schools.
Looking at the economy first, the proportion of people thinking the economy is improving continues to tick upwards. 49% now think the economy is showing signs of recover (34%) or is on its way to full recovery (15%). This is also translating into people being more likely to think that the government are doing a good job running the economy – 45% now think they are doing well at managing the economy, 44% badly. Just a one percent net positive, but the first time the government have managed a positive since way back in November 2010.
However, at a personal level the public are still pessimistic. More people still expect to be worse off next year than better off (by 34% to 18%), and asked about their own local area in the Sun on Sunday poll people still think there are fewer jobs, people have less money to spend and the shops are less busy.
Moving onto schools, 38% of people now think that schools now have too much freedom and that government should have more powers over them. 24% think the current balance is about right, only 19% now think that schools should have greater powers.
Looking specifically at the Birmingham case, 44% believe there probably was an organised plot to take over schools, 33% think that the schools had gone too far towards adopting a Muslim ethos, but that it was probably not an organised plot. Just 6% think there was no problem. More generally 79% think there is a risk of schools being taken over by religious extremists (34% a large risk in many parts of the country, 45% a lower risk in only a few areas), and 50% of people think the risk is greater in Academies and Free Schools. 55% think the government have not reacted strongly enough to counter the threat.
The idea that schools should try to instil British values in pupils does meet with wide approval, with 79% support. 70% say there are distinct British values than schools can uphold and teach, 21% say that in reality British values are not really different from other countries' and they couldn't, in practice, be defined or taught.
200 Responses to "YouGov Sunday polls"1 2 3 4 Next »
Everybody must be watching the football – I don't recall ever being the 1st to comment!
But a very fine comment it was Amber.
One of yer best.
@ Amber
Just starting to stir now.
Yougov should be asking the if Dean Sturridge replaced Ed/Dave/Nick/Nigel as leader would that change your voting intention.
YouGov also had some questions last Sunday on the freedom of schools[1]:
and the contrast was even more stark. 70% agreed with Governments should limit the freedom given to individual schools to make sure they don't make decisions that are bad for children or are taken over by extremists – even if this means good schools also have less freedom to innovate or experiment and only 11% wanted the balance the other way.
You suspect this is one of those cases where the same question keeps on getting asked in different way till the public come up with the 'correct' answer[2]. This week the winning option was still Schools have too much freedom to make their own decisions, and local and central government should have more powers over them, but it was not so dramatic. It would also be interesting to separate out the enthusiasm for local and central control. In the past people seem more in favour of local government, but again this is not necessarily the 'correct' response.
[1] Anthony the tables for this haven't yet appeared in their proper place in the Archive. I suspect they were held back because the formatting is a mess, but they really do need to be cleaned up and made easy to find.
[2] Last week the question was clearly asked in the context of Muslims and education while it was the first question this week.
It is quite interesting to see that the same polling organisation can collect such contrasting data in the regional figures. The Wales/Midlands figures are bizarre. Strangely the end result is almost the same.
RMJ1 – that rather shows that the sampling is correctly applied.
We don't expect regional cross breaks individually to be accurate (hence the old Medieval poll watchers saying 'Beware wolves and cross breaks') but as part of the whole sample these errors are meant to balance out.
In fact, these two YG polls rather neatly demonstrate why we shouldn't really pay the blindest bit of attention to cross breaks as they are effectively meaningless.
@ Rosie&Daisie
One of yer best.
Thanks, I thought so too. :-)
The concept of a Wales/Midlands region as used by YG is in itself bizarre. Mixing the Heart of England with another country is unlikely to provide meaningful poll data analysed down to this level. Welsh poll data should be treated separately.
Parts of Wales do think of themselves as British (Monmouthshire, the border area of Powys and the North-East); these are the areas where UKIP support was strongest in the recent Euro elections. However, the other parts of Wales – the South Wales cities (Cardiff, Newport and Swansea), the English-speaking (but consciously Welsh) South Wales valleys and Y Fro Gymraeg – are politically and consciously very different.
"Parts of Wales do think of themselves as British"
Who'd have thought it?
BFIELD (2 threads/3 hours ago)
Poll for Opinium shows large majority against State funding of religious schools. Presume this is a Birmingham effect even though there are only 18 Muslim schools. Vast majority are CofE or RC
No, there have been majorities against any state support for any faith schools before. For example a few days ago Anthony indirectly pointed to this poll from a year ago:
Which found the public 45% to 32% against funding "Faith schools in general". There was some differentiation by denomination with the Church of England just getting into positive territory 42-38, but Catholics and other Christians had a score of around -10 and non-Christian religions around -40. I suspect the main influence here may have been people's awareness of good schools in their vicinity (the question was asked after others that might prompt thoughts in that direction) and there are more CofE ones. The CofE is probably seem as less exclusionary than other faiths as well.
We don't have details of the Opinium poll yet and the details on the website are scanty even by Grauniad standards (they've illustrated it with a photo from a completely unrelated story). So there may be further movement from last year, though differences may be caused by wording.
It's also worth making my usual point that any faith schools for any religion may create other faith schools by exclusion. So you end up with schools that are Muslim (as in Birmingham) even if not formally so, just because the actual faith schools take all the non-Muslims.
Funding for faith schools is another one of those awkward questions that don't get asked much in polls, because, as with Nationalisation, the answer that the public give isn't what the people who commission the polls want to hear. London-based parents often see faith schools as good for keeping one's own children away from the plebs, without having to pay extra. So this basic question doesn't get asked.
I wonder if most people would think of their local CofE primary as a 'faith school'.
@Amber S
"Everybody must be watching the football – I don't recall ever being the 1st to comment!"
Indeed, and I plead guilty as charged! I'm only dipping in to UKPR sporadically to check the latest polls, and taking Spearmint's excellent advice on swerving my way rapidly through the largely moribund discussion threads in doing so. I see the latest Scottish Independence thread died after 11 posts!! Accordingly, apart from reading a few of my very favourite posters (of which you are definitely one! :-)), I am oblivious to all the usual happy badinage, and none the worse for being so!
I'm wallowing in the World Cup and enjoying it thoroughly, even last night's England game. I was one of 15.6 million watching on TV (plus many millions more in pubs and clubs) and what an extraordinary sized audience that was considering the game went on into the early hours of Sunday. Apart from the noisy curmudgeons and bah-humbug merchants, England World Cup football games must be the nearest we get to shared national experiences in this increasingly atomised society of ours. Facebook, twitter, blog sites and PCs discarded for a day, thank goodness. Sport as a harmless, unifying and life-affirming distraction, and I say a loud hurrah to that.
However, I must confess to a guilty pleasure last night. Yes, I went through all the anguish with many millions of my fellow countryman, forlornly willing an England victory, but I revelled and delighted in the performance of one of my all time favourite footballers; the sublimely gifted Andrea Pirlo of Italy. The beauty of football is its inherent chaos and that's why it has far more capacity for drama than other inferior formulaic and choreographed ball games. It's the secret of its immense and global popularity too, but geniuses like Pirlo impose order on the chaos with their deft touches, visionary passes and ability to see the broader canvas of the game. Pirlo is one of the great artists of an extraordinarily simple yet beautiful team game, and I urge all football lovers to catch their last glimpses of this marvellous talent before he takes leave of the game he has graced for 20 years at the end of this tournament.
Poll for Opinium shows large majority against State funding of religious schools. Presume this is a Birmingham effect even though there are only 18 Muslim schools. Vast majority are CofE or RC
-The Schools in Birmingham weren't faith schools and all bar one if I recall correctly are academies where different funding arrangements apply anyway.
There are over 7000 Christian State funded Faith Schools in the UK and 11 Muslim and less than 70 non Christian in total (most of these are Jewish) .
'I wonder if most people would think of their local CofE primary as a 'faith school'.'
I do.
Just imagine if faith schools had been banned from the very start – the impact in Northern Ireland would have been immense.
If we start going paranoid about religion can I also mention Christian sects like Plymouth Brethren and Hasidic Jews (and others) who totally remain not merely in their own faith based schools but totally in faith based communities…
Can we please keep the discussion on Scottish Referendum Polls to their own thread.?
I have avoided UKPR for the last couple of days because of the animosity which has crept into those discussions
Yes, Roger at 12.34.
And the other thing is these schools in Birmingham were not free schools. The DfE put out an answer to Crispin Blunt's comments about faith schools to this effect. The schools in Birmingham were not faith schools or free schools they were under local authority and hence government controls.
These poll questions were based on bogus assumptions and forced bogus opinions out of people who were probably mostly clueless about the true nature of the situation.
What possible value can they therefore be except to be used as a tool for some people, who have thus had their prejudices reinforced, to spout more rubbish?
And again Roger at 2.41.
You point out that some parents will send their children to faith schools to avoid sending their children to mix with the 'plebs'… or in other terms to get a better education at no extra cost.
Indeed. And the classic example of this was Blair who bussed his son all across London to the catholic Oratory. He even went through the motions of changing his religion. At least Dianne Abbott was brazen in her hypocrisy when she sent her children private.
Well they were mainly academies, so not under local authority control. All of these schools are ultimately under Government control – that is where the money comes from.
Only one of the schools placed into special measures in Birmingham was a local authority school, Saltley School.
The rest were free schools and academies.
And you might remember that Cherie Blair is a practising catholic, and that the Oratory is a state school.
"The beauty of football is its inherent chaos and that's why it has far more capacity for drama than other inferior formulaic and choreographed ball games."
You just nicked that from the Daily Star.
Actually it is brilliant.
The schools in Birmingham were not faith schools or free schools they were under local authority and hence government controls.
They weren't faith schools except by default. If the Birmingham schools have C of E and Catholic schools nearby (and they do):
then if the substantial minority of non-Muslim children are sent to those, the remaining schools will become all-Muslim.
And they're not free schools either. There aren't many of those of any size yet, though some of us warned when Gove proposed those that exactly this sort of thing was inevitable with those (and that has happened elsewhere).
But most of them aren't 'under local authority… control"[1] either. Most of them were Academies and so directly under the control of the Department of Education. Hence May's irritation at Gove trying to blame everyone except himself.
[1] Furthermore, because I've seen people trying to make partisan points about this, I have to point out that Birmingham was under the control of a Conservative-Lib Dem coalition from 2004 to 2012, so where there was LA responsibility it may not lie where people hoped it did. Contrariwise New Labour brought in Academies and were almost as keen on promoting them as the current government.
Cherie Blair is a practising catholic, and that the Oratory is a state school.
Indeed, but I suspect that there were fair number of Catholic schools a lot nearer to Islington than the Brompton Oratory. If a Catholic education was the only requirement, there were closer alternatives. And no doubt there were many parents living a lot nearer who would have liked their sons to go there[1]
What is happening here is that the loose selection policies that faith schools are allowed to operate mean that they can select for academic ability (when claiming not to) but also effectively on a social basis as well, choosing the children of the wealthy or well-connected.
If you fit in those groups, you can all the advantages of a public school education for your kids without the cost or political stigma of actually sending them to one.
[1] It also has single sex classes (girls aren't accepted till sixth form) which apparently is a sign of complete evil when brown people do it.
Accordingly, apart from reading a few of my very favourite posters (of which you are definitely one!)
You are too kind :-)
I watched the England/Italy game & enjoyed the football; sadly England's youthful enthusiasm failed to overcome the Italians' experience & flair. England's approach was the right one; go for the net early & often – they were unlucky not to get a draw.
And I must say, the half-time analysis by Alan Shearer & Thierry Henry was 'different class' from the drivel we usually get.
So long as certain fundamental principles and values are upheld, I have no problem with education being provided by faith groups, Muslims included.
I think the problem comes when minority groups cleave to principles and values that sit outside what is generally seen as "fundamental" in the UK. But that is a problem across the board, not just in education.
If your faith group is happy to provide an education that recognises the scientific basis for evolutionary theory, accepts the validity of same-sex relationships, promotes the equality of the sexes and provides humanities teaching that accords with the texts and outline of the national curriculum, then go for it. If you're not, then f**k off. I don't mind if you want to put an "emphasis on X values" or organise yourself in a way that accords with your traditions (single sex classrooms, kosher/halal/vegetarian kitchens, a ban on military cadet groups, whatever).
As a patriotic Englishman and Yid (in the Spurs sense), it pains me to admit that Mssr Henry is a very pleasant and sensible fellow, but he very much is.
Re – football I have no problem with anyone enjoying the game at all but strongly object to it being rammed down the throat of everybody else. I viced my displeasure at my local baker's shop yesterday at being served by staff wearing England jerseys – and my comments received nodding heads from several waiting customers. Supermarkets – and even restaurants – are bedecked with England flags in a way that I find rather vulgar and oppressive. We don't have to suffer this with rugby, cricket, tennis and other sports – why should football be any different? In the absence of such a sense of proportion I – who would otherwise simply ignore the game – find myself wishing for an early England exit simply to bring an end to the hype and hysteria.
I believe the state in a multi-cultural society has a duty to provide education for all children that is free of all religious influence.
Religion is surely a private matter of conscience for each individual in a free society (NOT families or groups, BUT individuals).
Therefore so that future individual adults can make an informed decision about what religion or none that they wish to adhere to the subject should be taught in a completely neutral way covering the basis and history all major faiths and agnosticism and atheism.
By what criterea do we as a state that enshrines the belief in INDIVIDUAL freedom of conscience and belief think it is acceptable to grant the believers of ANY faith group the right to indoctrinate children who are the off-spring of their group of believers at public expense?
This is rank cowardice amongst the leaders of our supposed liberal-democratic state in the face of beligerant faith groups – and I say this as an agnostic brought up as the son of an Anglican clergyman – with all that means!!!
Either we believe as a society and state in the rights of an individual to their own conscience, free of parental, let alone state influence, or we do not IMO!
I wouldn't want any child of mine to grow up free of parental influence.
I agree 100%, Tony. Very well put.
@ Fraser, L Hamilton
There's a separate thread for Scottish Independence Polling.
@ Amber,
Some of us are just in hiding from the inevitable football threads. (Or worse still, the terrible chimera that was the combined football/Scottish independence thread. I saw that beastie and ran far, far away…)
@ Neil A
"I wouldn't want any child of mine to grow up free of parental influence."
Agreed! But surely parents in a free society should be expected to bring their own children up to make an informed decision about what that child eventually chooses to believe for themselves. If they drill them into believing one faith is true, and the others lesser or wrong – in my view that is child abuse – and the state should step in to correct it!
Thanks Norbold!
@" football I have no problem with anyone enjoying the game at all but strongly object to it being rammed down the throat of everybody else"
I can see that it's beauty , inherent chaos and capacity for drama -as compared with the inferior formulaic and choreographed ball games you mention, has escaped you. :-)
Perhaps Mr Blatter will finally succeed in bringing his monstrous creation of scam , graft and "loadsamoney" to an inglorious end, and it can be returned to the sort of sanity you have in mind ?
I had decided that, by now, this ST YG poll would mark the end of EP election influence, and it would have returned to something like what, prior to May, I would have considered 'normal'.
I don't think the EU effect has quite worked itself out of polling yet, so I think another two weeks is needed. I shan't be around so I shall miss whether I am correct (unless I take a sneak look at UKPR when in Trier!).
At Fort George near Ardersier (Inverness) there's the Highlander Museum. One of the earliest clans in what became the Highlander Regiment was the Cameron clan (after the Seaforths).
The Camerons, originally from Lochaber in the west of the Highlands, fought against the English at Bannockburn and with the Jacobite rebels at Colluden and clearly have impeccable Scottish Independence credentials.
In fact they also suffered greatly in the Highland clearances. Well, the ordinary folk did. The British returned the clan chief's land just a few decades after it was forfeited. But as a result of the clearances huge swathes of the clan were expelled.
Which brings me to this question.
By rights, history, tradition you would expect DC to be a fervent advocate of Scottish Independence and it would be an extraordinary irony if he ended up losing the Union. But that's only half the story. Ultimately it depends on how DC sees his identity: does he feel closer to the original Cameron clan who fought alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie, for freedom at Bannockburn and Colluden; or with the Clan chief who in return for his land sold his people down the river in the Highland clearances?
4 days in the Highlands and I've become a Scottish nationalist! Or at least that might have happened had I not reflected on how at every juncture in Scottish history Scots have fought on opposing sides, and done terrible things to one another.
Identity is a complex thing.
You must have been in a quandary whether to post that on this thread or the previous one!
"at every juncture in Scottish history Scots have fought on opposing sides, and done terrible things to one another."
Well, not really any more than any other country that existed in medieval times, and through the religious wars of the 17th century.
I don't think politicians should be obliged to promote their politics through the choice of their children's schools. Harold Wilson's sons went to public school but no one seemed to regard it as a matter of public interest at the time. (One of them is a maths professor at, appropriately enough, the OU.)
I see you are off to one of my favourite cities in Europe! The Porta Negra is an absolute gem, as is the amphitheatre, which I first saw with my late father in 1968, when we just stumbled upon it in an unkempt piece of open ground. I revisited two years ago and it is now protected properly as a museum site. Karl Marx's birthplace is also worth a visit.
Anyway, I don't know if you know Trier already, but in any event enjoy yourself thoroughly, and if you remember – raise a glass of crisp Moselle wine to all of us whom you have left behind!
Yes I agree, like every other country. I didn't mean it as s slight, more an observation.
I was trying to reason why a man with DC's history would take such a firm line against Scottish Independence.
@RAF: "By rights, history, tradition you would expect DC to be a fervent advocate of Scottish Independence"
The Jacobites weren't advocates of Scottish independence; they wanted to restore the Roman Catholic Stuart king, James, to the English throne.
@Roger H
To which he had every right, being James II/VII's grandson. And it was also the Scottish and Irish thrones.
I say "right" based on standard succession rules at the time.
@ Colin
"This is why your desire for a "multi-cultural state" , and an education which is" free of religious influence " are mutually exclusive."
Thank you Colin for your thoughtful and challenging reply.
Interestingly, having been a teacher in state primary schools for 8 years in the late 90s and early 2000s, and having lived next door to a devout but friendly Muslim family for 27 years, I can honestly write that I find, certainly Muslim families of Pakistani origin to be very open to sharing religious festivals with Christians and Jews, and discussing their views about the inter-relationships historically between, for certain at a minimum, the "Three Religions of The Book" as they like to call it. Despite some of the girls choosing to wear the Hijab (their father didn't require it, they chose it individually) and being very devout indeed, in my experience they do share a common culture with us, although they do bemoan my agnosticism, rather than remaining Christian as I had been brought up! But they are much more open than many in the media would have you believe of the Muslim community in general.
I am convinced that if as a state and society we adopted a radical officially secular approach to the teaching of comparative religions in schools, provided we made this clear that it is in no way anti-Muslim or Anti-Christian or Anti-whatever else, but just to allow each community to interface with and access education equally without fear or favour – this would be an ethical thing to do.
We are all falling victims here to a 19th century traditional inheritance of faith groups being the providers of education establishments. Woefully out-of-date and inappropriate for the 21st century IMO, and it is simply cowardice on the part of politicians to do anything about it, which is why they have got themsleves in such a tangle.
Plus, just as the Southern States of the USA had to have busing of pupils forced on them to create integration, if necessary maybe we should think about the same to stop the creation of single religion or single race schools becoming the norm in Britain.
Perhaps we should start busing here to achieve the sort of society we want, just as they had to in the southern States of the USA from the early 60s onwards to stamp out racism?
Possibly signs the Labour lead has slimmed down to about 3% in the last few days, although there was one poll still putting it at 6%. No doubt the next few polls will tell us one way or the other.
The Yorkists (amongst others) might dispute that. It was James II's son, the 'Old Pretender', who claimed the English throne (there was no Irish throne – it was regarded as a province of England). But we fought a civil war to establish that Parliament, not the monarch, should have the final say. No one was more keen on the union of Scotland and England than James I & VI, though.
Good Evening All.
Catholic children have often travelled miles across 'catchments and past other Catholic schools.
Tony Blair sent his son who is apparently going to become the PPC for Bootle (Labour), to The Oratory a year before the 1997 GE.
Harriet Harman sent one of her sons there.
JACK: Good evening to you.
I think if the Westminster Parliament had forced Northern Ireland Politicians to allow Universal Suffrage from 1922, instead of waiting until 1969-72, that would have helped.
"No one was more keen on the union of Scotland and England than James I & VI, though."
Oh come now! James VI & I was equally keen!
Tony Dean
So what in Welsh or Scottish schools suggests to you that "the creation of single religion or single race schools becoming the norm in Britain" could become a possibility? Even in the remaining bit of the UK, there is a movement towards integrated rather than segregated schooling.
I find the debate about what should be taught at schools interesting, especially as my own children are home educated, thus out of that loop.
I do feel fundamentally that it is the business of my wife and I what we teach our children, how we do it and the values ingrained within that. Given that our son was taught in three schools, and we were grossly dissatisfied most aspects of those schools, we want the state to simply butt out – which they have. They are thriving, learning a huge amount and essentially work on a on-to-one curriculum, tailored to their learning style. We know a state could not offer that. They are involved with a range of groups, so actually meet groups of similar children 2-3 times per week.
Ultimately, our children are our responsibility. Given that hash the three schools we experienced made of their education and dealing with their special needs (Aspergers), they have no moral duty to comment or criticise what we do.
Regarding religion, they will be taught that folk have different belief systems – they include Christianity, Islam and other mainstream religions, as well as paganism as well. They will be taught both respect for faiths and the critical thinking to challenge them also, so will have the tools to decide whether to believe any of them or none of them.
I do find it odd the see the scramble for defining 'British values'. Most values the politicians are calling British values are universal human values and we will not be linking them specifically to Britain or anywhere else. I think that is folly.
Cameron bears an uncanny resemblace to Duff Cooper (to whom he is related). The Duffs have a reputation for accumulating massive estates (and sitting in parliament)… consequently they were on the side of the goverment and the Duke of Cumberland in '45.


text:
A free monthly newspaper
serving the local community
Contact us
Archived Stories
Volunteer fair to be held Oct.
L.O.V.E., or the Local Organizations and Volunteers Event, will be held from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9, at Condon Park in Grass Valley.
The L.O.V.E. volunteer fair brings together nonprofit organizations from throughout Nevada County to discuss their mission and volunteer opportunities. The Nevada County Progressive Alliance and the Peace and Justice Center of Nevada County are presenting the volunteer fair.
This is a free event and food trucks will be there offering a variety of items. For more information, call 530-388-0959.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google since 2015, is now also a board member of its parent company Alphabet Inc., according to a press release by the company.
"Sundar has been doing a great job as Google's CEO, driving strong growth, partnerships, and tremendous product innovation. I really enjoy working with him and I'm excited that he is joining the Alphabet board," said Larry Page, CEO of Alphabet
Google is Alphabet's most profitable subdivision and is responsible for roughly 90 percent of the tech giant's overall revenue. Pichai was made CEO of Google in August 2015 when the company reorganised, in that role, he oversees several of Google's most profitable divisions including search, maps, Android, and YouTube, while also leading the company's latest 'AI-first' push.


text:
Apply Now | Eligibility and Process | Categories of Support | Committee
Key Dates | Funding Guidelines | Sample of Previously Awarded Projects
VU BreakThru (Blog)
The Discovery Grant program is one of the primary ways Vanderbilt invests in advancing core disciplines, thereby strengthening the scholarly profile of the university. The program is designed to serve as a catalyst for significant external funding sources -- supporting new ideas, cutting-edge research and the development of infrastructure. The Discovery Grant program provides a springboard to make possible external grants that will be more attractive to large federal funding agencies such as the NSF, NIH, DoD, etc. All full-time, VU-employed (Provost-reporting) faculty are eligible.
Eligibility and Process Requirements
- All full-time, VU-employed (Provost-reporting) faculty are eligible.
- Must demonstrate an ability to attract new external funding.
- VUMC-employed faculty may collaborate but funds will only be distributed to the VU lead faculty.
- Proposals that advance research in areas related to race, diversity and inclusivity are invited.
- Proposals involving graduate students are encouraged.
- For a full list of eligibility and process requirements, please click HERE.
Previously Awarded Projects Sample
Categories of Support
- Pilot/Feasibility Studies. Up to $25,000/year will be awarded for up to two years. Funds enable investigators to perform key preliminary investigations or studies in new areas of research prior to submitting external grant applications. Proposals must emphasize new directions or ideas as opposed to incremental extensions of established ones. Of particular interest are high-risk proposals with the potential to make significant breakthroughs.
- Interdisciplinary Grants. Up to $50,000/year will be awarded for up to two years, for projects involving two or more faculty members from different fields, generally from different departments or schools. Funds enable investigators to perform key preliminary investigations or studies in new areas of research prior to submitting external grant applications. Note: TIPs awards are for existing or emerging institutes and centers that are trans-institutional (multi and inter-disciplinary) in nature, whereas Discovery Grants are for earlier stage efforts that may later evolve into broader programs.
- Infrastructure Grants. Up to $100,000/year will be awarded for up to two years, for the establishment of facilities essential for disciplinary-focused research programs. Substantial matching funds are required in this category. Matching fund sources and amounts must be included in the proposal budget.
Key Dates
- Proposal window open: Dec. 11, 2017
- Proposals due: Jan. 29, 2018
- Award announcements: Spring 2018
- Funds available: July 1, 2018


text:
Bikini Colorsuper Swim
Love Militia
A classic Military camouflage style thong set designed by Colorsuper. Available in neutral white/greys and juicy purple/pink This item features adjustable clasps on the top and bottoms offering a sexy and sleek minimal look. Bikini top offers removable pads. Whether you're swimming or sunbathing, this is a perfect seaside outfit that will suit any holiday destination.
- Condition: New - with tags
- Colour: Purple
- Brand: Colorsuper Swim
Size Details
• Model wears size small • Includes a bespoke PVC zip-lock bag • 82% Polyester, 18% Spandex Size Small fits UK 6-8 Size Medium fits UK 10-12
Returns & Exchanges
You may cancel an order from your account before it is shipped. Please note that if the item is made-to-measure you may only be able to cancel the order before it is shipped provided that the garment hasn't been altered or made yet.
If you receive an item and wish to return it for any reason you must inform the Seller in writing within 14 days of receiving the item.
You may also return any item to the Seller within 28 days if the item becomes faulty.
The Seller will then provide you instructions on how to return your item and once your item is received back, they will process your refund through Paypal.
Return postage is your responsibility unless the item is incorrect or faulty, in which case the Seller will refund the return postage. If you cancel your contract under the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 any standard shipping charges that you have paid to receive your purchase will be included as part of your refund.
Please note that the Seller may refuse a refund if the garment has been made according to your precise measurements ie) made-to-measure. The items you return must be unworn and in their original condition save for your right to inspect the goods and try on the garments. It is your responsibility to ensure that you package the returned goods adequately so that it arrives back to the Seller undamaged.
If you have any further questions on returns, refunds or cancellations please contact the Seller.
This item is shipped from UKYou can select shipping options at the checkout.
|UK Standard
|5 days
|UK Express
|2 days
|Europe EU
|6 days
|Europe Non EU
|8 days
|North America
|10 days
|Rest of the World
|10 days
If your region isn't listed, the seller may still ship to you. Ask them.
More Like ThisBikinis
About This Boutique
Bristol UK
Also from us:
Super Thick Bikini Sold by
Super Thick Bikini Sold by
Love Militia Sold by
Bambei Swimsuit Sold by


text:
So… welcome to Just Add Tea!
My name is Elizabeth, I'm a high school teacher by day, and a blogger/author by night, and this is my virtual sitting room. It's my place to offer wisdom and life stories to anyone who can learn from my mistakes and experiences, just as women throughout history have offered advice to one another while sitting around their parlors, chatting over tea (or something a bit stronger).
This blog began as a way for me to vent my frustrations in an anonymous format. Over four years and a life changing move to Houston later, and this blog has finally settled into what it was meant to be: a place for me to discuss my dating adventures and share the lessons I've learned through my experiences… Though my personal frustrations do still make an appearance.
- Expect posts about relationships in all their forms. Friendships and casual dating count as relationships, too. My adventures on Tinder show up a lot. If you're looking for just dating stories, click "Tea for Two" on the menu to the left. On the other hand, if you're looking for advice, click "Words of Wisdom."
- Expect brutal honesty about how I see things. Especially now that I know I have Asperger's Syndrome for sure, I am much more inclined to stop hiding the weird way I see the world. Basically, I've been very blunt on here; that's going to happen more instead of less. If you're looking to read about my adventures and insights of being an Aspie, click on "Aspie Explorations."
- Expect some creative randomness. I do like to be creative, and I'm currently working on my first novel, The Secrets of Seashells, so I may, from time to time, include a snippet from that, as well as the occasional random short story or poem, and very very rarely some photography. To see those, click on "Creative Endeavors" in the menu to the left.
- Expect movie reviews. My movie reviews are some of the most popular posts, getting hits all across the globe! So… we're going to continue with those. What makes my reviews different? I analyze the characters a bit more than average, and I try to point out good points for an after the movie date discussion. My personal favorite is my review of the new Star Wars flick, which could have been a good date movie if I'd chosen a better date partner… Click "Tea and a Movie" for more.
- Finally, I've added a new category because there are things happening in the news that disturb me and need to be addressed. With the ever growing threat of ISIS and the negative backlash against the Muslim community, and the other sources of hate (I'm looking at you Donald Trump), I added a category specifically for World events: "A Cup of Reality."
So make yourself comfortable while I go put the kettle on, and we'll have some interesting discussions about life and love as we advise and inspire each other over tea.


text:
Avid unveils upgraded digital audio and video technology at NAB
MUMBAI: Avid, the creator of digital audio and video technology, has introduced a new and upgraded solution for audio production, professional editing, multi-platform content distribution, on-air graphics production, and asset management at the Nab television technology trade convention in Las Vegas.
The company also shared its strategic vision, termed "Avid Everywhere," which expresses the company?s commitment to create the most fluid end-to-end, distributed media production environment in the industry.
?Avid Everywhere? recognises that flexible deployment options, including remote and cloud-based collaboration technology, have become critical to content creators and distributors as they face relentless pressure for operational excellence.
Intense cost pressures and content creation complexity are key challenges for media and content professionals in this ever more mobile and social world. ?Avid Everywhere? helps our customers meet these challenges by empowering distributed work teams, multi-platform delivery, and the ability to work in any production environment.
Avid president, CEO Louis Hernandez Jr said, "Over the past 25 years, Avid has built a strong heritage of industry leadership; we?re proud of the role we play in empowering our customer community to create the most compelling media in the industry. As a critical element of Avid?s growth strategy, Avid Everywhere inspires our next phase of innovation around our entire product suite. We look forward to sharing more announcements over the next year."
Specific new and upgraded products announced at Nab include:
Creative Tools-Avid?s professional creative tools set the industry standard for the highest quality content creation and production solutions to power the complete professional content creation environment.
- Avid Media Composer 7 - The nonlinear editing solution is now available and the aim is to bring value to post production editors. The new version features accelerated and simplified file-based workflows including optimised HD delivery from high-res source material and automated media operations. The new release also offers Interplay Sphere for Mac support, extending real-time production everywhere.
- Avid Pro Tools 11 - Avid?s digital audio workstation features audio and video engines, 64-bit architecture, expanded metering, and direct HD video workflows.
- Avid Motion Graphics 2.5 - Avid?s next-generation platform of on-air graphics production includes a new dual-channel configuration option and stand-alone playout engine to increase deployment flexibility and speed graphic workflows, to create stunning imagery and get work quicker to air.
- Avid Fast Track Solo and Duo - Avid?s two new portable audio interfaces for composing and recording high-quality audio come equipped with Pro Tools Express software for Mac and PC, and connect directly to the iPad, providing high-quality I/O for any iOS app.Media Management Solutions-From the largest media enterprises to independent professionals, Avid provides the most open, flexible, and scalable solutions in the industry.
- Avid Interplay Production 3.0 - Avid?s latest version of the production asset management solution simplifies and speeds file-based workflows for post production and broadcast customers, and offers Interplay Sphere with full Mac support.
- Avid Interplay Pulse - Avid?s enhanced multi-platform content distribution solution delivers content to online, mobile, and social platforms everywhere, in the right form and format for each, while featuring integration with Avid?s connected newsroom solution set and unified web client.
- Avid AirSpeed 5000 2.5 - Avid?s latest-version video server delivers slow motion playback for SD and HD, fast media replay, and continuous record.


text:
Date(s) - 27/10/2017
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where does all the time go? To use your time more effectively in the future, you first need to work out how you spend it now. Developing more effective business practices can save lots of time, reduce stress – and improve your bottom line.
Please note you must reside or have a business within Winchester City Council's postcode area to attend this workshop.
This event is free of charge and full address details will be confirmed for the venue in Winchester.
Bookings are closed for this event.


text:
Madhya Pradesh Police will be soon requiring number of candidates for different vacancies. To get any more require detail about these posts check below.
Madhya Pradesh Police Recruitment Board | Madhya Pradesh Police Recruitment 2016 – Application Form
There is recently the Madhya Pradesh Police recruitment Board makes an announcement for various vacancies. As per this announcement from this recruitment board there are require number of candidates for the posts of Constable, ASI, Head Constable, law Officer and Steno Grapher under the Madhya Pradesh Police. For all these vacancies here will be also publish official notification as soon as. After publishing this recruitment official notification here will be also soon start online application by this organization official recruitment link. After this recruitment notification any interested candidates also can submit your application as soon as before the last date of application after this application here will not be accepted any application. You also should have to check this recruitment required all eligibility criteria. So all candidates to get any more require detail about this upcoming vacancies check on its official press release link at http://mppolice.gov.in//Dynamic/PressRelease.aspx.
The Madhya Pradesh Police recruitment Board is a state level recruitment board was developed for complete and fills all vacancies under the Madhya Pradesh Police. For all these required vacancies in this organization here are also select all desired and qualified candidates. To make selection here are also organization written exam and physical test from this recruitment board.
Apply Madhya Pradesh Police Constable Form 2016,
Madhya Pradesh Police Exam Date 2016
As per other vacancies here will be also soon require number of candidates for the posts of SI Constable, ASI, Head Constable, etc. for these posts you also can check any more require detail from its official upcoming released notification. Soon after here we will be also provide you this recruitment official application link. To get any more detail about this vacancies you can check on Madhya Pradesh Police official website at http://mppolice.gov.in/. After some time all interested candidates for these posts could be apply online from here.


text:
A Scumbag Is Out There Leaking Private Photos of Emma Watson
I will never understand the mentality that causes gross scumbags to steal people's private photos and put them on the internet. What is anyone gaining by doing that? What kind of disgusting sociopath finds pleasure in that kind of act? Ugh.
More: Emma Watson Draws Strength From Fellow Activists
Celebrities are regular targets, and Emma Watson is reportedly in the midst of a photo-hacking scandal now. Variety reports that the Beauty and the Beast star is gearing up for legal action against someone who stole her private photos and leaked them online.
Watson's rep assured reporters that the stolen images are not nude photos, but instead show Watson trying on clothes.
"Photos from a clothes fitting Emma had with a stylist a couple of years ago have been stolen," her rep said in a statement. "They are not nude photographs. Lawyers have been instructed and we are not commenting further."
More: 20 Celebs Who Were Rumored to Have Died — But Didn't
This is after social media and blog posts started reporting that Watson's private photos had been shared to an anonymous message board. The reports said actor Amanda Seyfried had also been targeted.
Watson was threatened with the release of private photos in 2014 after she gave a speech to the United Nations about gender equality. Thankfully, that turned out to be a hoax.
One of the largest celebrity hacks of all time occurred in 2014, when two men used a phishing scheme to gain access to and steal private photos, some of them nudes, of Jennifer Lawrence, Ariana Grande, Kate Upton and others. Edward J. Majerczyk of Chicago and Ryan Collins of Pennsylvania were found to be operating independently of one another in that scheme. Majerczyk was sentenced to nine months in prison, while Collins was sentenced to 18 months.
More: Emma Watson Continues Her Crusade for Girl Power
Before you go, check out our slideshow below.


text:
- About Us
- Programs
- Registration
- Student Info
- Contact
Front Page
Grade 11 and 12 Course Registrations Effective May 7 2018
All student registrations for grade 11 and 12 courses will be open to students residing in Chilliwack, as well as those students living outside the Chilliwack area and have been registered at FVDES full-time in the 2017/18 school year.
The services offered to students in these courses will change as follows:
- Materials and resources will no longer be mailed to students
- All required resources are to be picked up at the FVDES location
- Testing will be done onsite at FVDES, or by proctor only
Students registering in Grade 11 and 12 courses after May 7 2018 must have the course completed by June 3, 2019. Please review the course selections carefully before choosing courses to register in.
2018 – 2019 School Year
Effective September 2018, Fraser Valley Distance Education School will be serving the following students:
- Chilliwack Students - Kindergarten to Grade 12 Full Time
- (Out of district students currently enrolled in full-time programs in 2017/18, may continue at FVDES)
- Secondary Chilliwack Students Requesting Individual Grade 10-12 courses (Including Adults)
- Registrations for full-time Kindergarten to Grade 9 Programs will be available in June 2018
- Registrations for Grade 10 course information to be announced
Please contact school Administration if you have any further questions regarding Fraser Valley Distance Education School.
2017 – 2018 School Year
Fraser Valley Distance Education School (FVDES) is currently restructuring the programs and services offered.
Please note the following Deadlines for Course Completions:
- All current Kindergarten to Grade 9 students must complete their program by June 21, 2018
- All current students taking Grade 10 courses must complete these courses by June 25, 2018
- All students (school age and adult) who registered in Grade 11 and 12 courses before May 7, 2018 will be required to complete these courses by December 14, 2018
- Students expecting Grade 11 & 12 course credits prior to September 2018, must complete their courses by June 25, 2018
(There will be very limited summer marking for July and August 2018 for Grade 11 and 12 courses.)
Please contact school Administration if you have any further questions regarding Fraser Valley Distance Education School.
School News
SD33 Administration Proposes 2-Week Spring Break
Please visit the School District Website for more information.
Effective January 30th, FVDES will be closed from 12 noon until 1 pm daily during the lunch break.
FVDES Test Room will be closed on June 20th and from June 28th-July 9th as the room is relocated.
Draft 2018-2019 Local School Calendar
Please visit the School District Website for more information and a link to a survey where you can provide feedback.
FVDES PAC Facebook Feedback Page
FVDES will be undergoing a redesign starting September 2018. Feedback from parents is vital.
Go to the PAC Facebook page to provide feedback!
Secondary Curriculum Implementation Update
Grades 10-12 Curriculum Update
Changes to Grades 10-12 Implementation Schedule
Reconfiguration News
Grade Reconfiguration Information
On March 7, 2017, the Board of Education approved the concept of reconfiguration of Chilliwack Schools to K to grade 5, grade 6 to grade 8, and grade 9 to grade 12, with the exception of Rosedale as K to grade 8. Clink here for details.
FVDES / SD33 Documents
FVDES Code Of Conduct
Fair Notice PDF


text:
- Join us!
- Family Hierarchy
- Blogs
- Galleries
- Official Crews
- Street Crew Private Rooms
- Getting Started - Info
- Show us your work - Imgur
- South Central - Don Aldo
- Events
- Contact
- Donate
- Activity FeedHonoured MercantiOffline137Likes1042Posts98Friends
Friends · See All InformationConsolesXbox One55Last Online4th Feb 2017Posts1042
0.78 posts per dayBlogsRegistered13th Dec 2014
1341 days since registeringAge20
"On the fringe, blood and bullets are the rule of law"
"A true outlaw finds the balance between the passion in his heart and the reason in his mind. The outcome is the balance of might and right."
- Nicholas Michael Haggerty, Age: 40, Height: 6f 4in, Weight: 190 lbs
Cult Of Personality - Living Colour ( https://www.youtube.com/w ... atch?v=jBxSFAnr8zU )SocialClub Name:ThinUnicorn11City you live inSan Cali X1Name on the StreetThinUnicornCurrent ResidenceWest VinewoodYour SpecialtyThief, Firearms, and MeleeGarageBagger, PhoenixStreet CrewRockford Hills ViceroysSignature WeaponSilenced Sniper rifleWho Vouched for you?--Looking for Work?http://themercantifamily.clanwebsite.com/155358/topic/gratten-52-amarillo-vista-el-burro-lxd/getpage
Photo GalleryEvolution Of Chibs
8 photos
Win/Loss Stats0
Win/Loss Ratio: 0
- Donate
- Show us your work - Imgur
- Getting Started - Info
- Family Hierarchy


text:
I just led off a critique of someone's work with this phrase. I look at it, and it appears ungrammatical. However, "what follow are" doesn't sound much better, and when I google
"What follows are" + grammar
I get a bunch of prescriptive grammar pages that unselfconsciously use the phrase "what follows are."
How wrong is it? Granted it's stilted and a little pretentious, but so am I. Is it the obvious error that it appears?


text:
For those of you who guessed it was a Loft on the East side, you were right! Our new space is in the "Waterstreet Lofts" building at 1601 East Cesar Chavez at Comal. The space is perfect for us with concrete floors, open floor plan and big front windows. We're having a blast planning the displays and choosing paint colors.
The thing we're most excited about is to debut the space not only as a retail store but also as a new creative space for crafters & makers. We aim to provide a social atmosphere where all types can come in and make something, use our tools & supplies and workspace. We'll have planned projects, guest instructors & specialty tools to entice anyone with an itch for DIY.
Some of you may be wondering 'What about Stella the airstream?' We've got plans for her too! We'll be keeping her just down the road at her current location at Starving Art (2324 E. Cesar Chavez) and having her available as another workspace for classes, parties, and private rental. Her new (preliminary) set-up will debut TOMORROW NIGHT at Etsy's Craft Party put on by Austin Craft Riot. The party is free to attend and we'll be screen printing in Stella while tons of other crafty activities go on upstairs in the gallery. Friday June 10th, 7-10pm at Starving Art.
Stay tuned for our planned opening in late July and of course a huge party to celebrate down the road!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Announcement: Brick & Mortar!
Posted by Beth Albrecht~Paired Hearts at 9:18 PM
2 comments:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Coordinating access to top class aquaculture research infrastructures is the aim of AQUAEXCEL, which will be carried out by a pan-European team of aquaculture research facilities. The AQUAEXCEL multidisciplinary team of experts work towards developing an integrated approach to link and coordinate key research infrastructures in Europe in order to create the basis for harmonizing access, joint research, and networking. AQUAEXCEL will provide the European aquaculture research community with a platform of top class research infrastructures. AQUAEXCEL will integrate, on a European scale, key aquaculture research infrastructures, in order to promote their coordinated use and development. Through collaboration among 17 partners and 23 facilities, AQUAEXCEL offers research infrastructures for both basic and applied research and it will provide the necessary instruments to make better tools available for aquaculture research.
Researcher: Dr.TürkerBodur (from Akdeniz University, Fisheries Faculty, Department of Aquaculture, Antalya –Turkey), Prof.Dr. Juan Manuel Afonso (ULPGC), Dr. AnaNavarroGuerra Del Rio (ULPGC),
Project Coordinator: Dr.TürkerBodur
The aquaculture infrastructure accessed: University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Warm Water Species Selection Unite. Spain
Budget:8817 Euro
What type of research were you carrying out?:
Three different herbal extracts used in order to anaesthetize European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and meagre (Argyrosomusregius) juveniles in this project. The project had two experiments. First we checked the suitable dosage of new anaesthetics for fish species. In second experiment, we checked the stress effect of new anaesthetics on species. Hence, we sampled blood from the fish at 4 timing points (0h, 2h, 6h and 24h) after the fish anaesthetized. Also stress genes expression will be analysed from anterior kidney, liver and gill tissues.
TNA to ULPGC was definitely beneficial for me. I had chance to see very well operating research infrastructures and worked with experienced staffs. Especially, stress experiment design, sampling and evaluating the results with experienced people made everything easy. We had already discussed possible new projects for future collaboration between ULPGC and Akdeniz University. I'm very happy to know new people through by EXCEL'lent project AQUAEXCEL and already looking forward to AquaEXCEL 2020 for future researches… Patenting process of new innovated anaesthetics has still been continued.


text:
QUEBEC – Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff is asking Quebec voters to determine who will be Canada's next prime minister.
Ignatieff travelled to separatist Bloc Québécois territory in central Quebec on Tuesday in pursuit of his longshot bid to unseat Stephen Harper's Conservatives.
The Liberal leader has been casting the May 2 election as a two-horse, Liberal-Conservative race, a fact of life he says Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe has accepted.
Duceppe noted early in the campaign — in the context of endless Conservative warnings of a coalition government — that either Harper or Ignatieff would occupy 24 Sussex Drive after the election.
"Even Mr. Duceppe understands that," Ignatieff said before flying into Quebec City from St. John's, N.L. "So what we've got to say to Quebecers is, you've got to choose here, folks."
He toured the offices of six different volunteer organizations, housed under a single community group umbrella organization, in the Quebec City suburb of Charlesbourg, using the foray to highlight measures in his party's "family pack" of platform measures.
The organizations ranged from one that assists the hearing impaired to a single-parent family organization and one for youths at risk, prompting Ignatieff to claim his party, unlike the Conservatives, truly represents Quebec values.
Liberals held just 14 of Quebec's 75 seats — none east of Montreal — while the Conservatives had 11 when Parliament was dissolved. The Bloc has consistently maintained a stranglehold on more than half the province's seats since 1993.
Harper has pummelled Ignatieff with the spectre of his predecessor's short-lived Liberal-NDP coalition that was supported by the Bloc in 2008.
The Conservative tactic has played better outside Quebec than in, where the Bloc is not feared as the separatist bogeyman and a governing coalition is viewed without alarm.
Ignatieff is attempting to appeal to Quebec voters without alienating soft nationalists.
"I have respect for Mr. Duceppe," he said. "I'd never form a coalition with him, but he's a parliamentary colleague, duly elected. But it's time to choose here prime ministers."
"I think we've come to a fork in the road," Ignatieff continued. "That is, Quebecers have got to decide whether they want Prime Minister Harper or a Liberal prime minister."
Ignatieff doesn't come without baggage.
He dragged a controversial campaign promise into Quebec. A day earlier in St. John's, Ignatieff said a Liberal government would support loan guarantees for Newfoundland and Labrador's massive hydroelectric project on the Lower Churchill.
The federal support, also promised by the Conservatives, is considered an unfair subsidy by some Quebecers, who see the project as creating direct competition to their own hydroelectric exports to the United States.
Ignatieff said it's time for both Newfoundlanders and Quebecers to forget their "bitter" history over hydroelectric development.
The Muskrat Falls project and transmission line from the Lower Churchill "changes the reality," Ignatieff said.
"How do we get Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec power into the New England states?" he asked.
"We can decide to compete against each other for another 40 years and replay a bad history, or we can create a new future together."
Ignatieff claimed to have no illusions about the difficulties of such a negotiation but said an activist federal role is required, calling it an "enormous opportunity that Mr. Harper, he's not going to seize."
And in something of political Hail Mary pass, Ignatieff reiterated his party's interest in providing federal funding for a new $400-million arena in Quebec City to replace the aging Colisee.
The project is seen as a prerequisite if the NHL is ever to return to the provincial capital, but governments who appear to subsidize millionaire athletes get scorched by Canadian public opinion.
Ignatieff said he'd like to see the Quebec Nordiques return after a 16-year absence, but "that's not the job of the federal government."
He argued, however, that the Colisee serves as a "community facility" with exhibition space and conference space. "That part of that project seems to us the kind of thing the federal government can support, provided we do it fairly across the country."


text:
For this last 2 weeks before the term ends, the schedule becomes hectic than ever. On Saturday 12th November 2011, the school organized the Hi-Tea at Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa – just as a 'let-hair-down-moment' as well as to strengthen the bonds between the teachers and staffs. The event has replaced the Annual Year-End-Dinner (last year was held in the school itself!); this year, BAKSI (the teachers & staffs society) has opted to try a day-light gathering as opposed to the night gatherings held few years back.
I drove there – following Kak Aireen's car whereas most of the teachers' entourage boarded the bus to reach Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa. It was raining when I pushed off from Serendah, Hulu Selangor and when we reached at the Selayang-Ipoh Road, vehicles were congesting the traffic! Nevertheless, we reached KL city centre and to Impiana KLCC in no time. It was a bit secluded-view from the road although the facade is big. And actually, it just ain't far from Jalan Raja Chulan – where my former bank located and Pavillion. So, it's just not a strange view – no wonder I was feeling at ease; Hahahaha! Only was that for cars, I had to park my car at KLCC carpark – escorted by the Impiana Hotel shuttle van and then whisked to the hotel via the shuttle van.
On whole, it was satisfying although as an Emcee/MC (yeah, I know! Again!), they didn't give me any microphone because the High-Tea commotion was held in Tonka Bean Cafe which is actually on the ground floor (so they didn't want audio system to distract other guests); but with my impeccable LOUD VOICE, I managed to make my speech heard and at least getting the attention of my colleagues when I was about to address the flow of the event – as well as the hotel's staffs & some teachers from SK Bangsar who actually shared the same venue with us!
Photo credit to Ustazah Asniza & Cikgu Zuraini.
The food were nice and the event was a success to expose the teachers and staffs to a comfortable yet chique place to savour the moment with each other. I applaud BAKSI committee for trying to inject something different – well, last year's was meant to be something different as well but Headmaster wanted to held the Annual Year-End-Dinner at the school; so we obliged – as what teachers always do. Cheers!~


text:
Functions of matrix laser technology
Only the moon is reflected in the hood. Otherwise, all is completely dark. However, this night is an illusion. Outside the sun is shining and the "moon" is a ceiling lamp inside the light tunnel in the Audi Light Assistance Center. Stephan Berlitz steps toward the prototype. He knows it best, because he is the person responsible for developing light innovations at Audi. His work has long since ceased to concern itself with individual headlamps – the car in front of him is a complete artwork of light technology.
Crosswalks – If the car identifies a pedestrian at the side of the road, it can use light to communicate with them: "For example, the car can give the passer-by a signal to cross the road. It can also provide a warning if a car is approaching fast from behind," explains Stephan Berlitz, Head of Development Light Innovations/ Functions at Audi. "The pedestrian can't see into the area behind the car, but the car can." The vehicle is aided by cameras, radar and ultrasound sensors.


text:
How It Works
You contribute securities or other appreciating assets to a charitable lead trust.
The trust makes annual payments to Penn Medicine for a period of time.
When the trust terminates, the remaining principal is paid to your heirs.
The present value of the income payments to Penn Medicine reduces your gift/estate tax.
All appreciation that takes place in the trust goes tax-free to your heirs.
The amount and term of the payments to Penn Medicine can be set so as to reduce or even eliminate transfer taxes due when the principal reverts to your heirs.
You have the satisfaction of making a significant gift to Penn Medicine now that reduces the taxes due on transfers to your heirs later.
For More Information
E-mail or call us at 215-898-9486, or complete the Request Information form. We will happily assist you through every step of the process.
Penn Medicine
Christine S. Ewan, J.D.
Executive Director, Planned Giving
3535 Market Street, Suite 750
Philadelphia, PA 19104-3309
215-898-9486 | Fax: 215-573-2186
E-mail: email@example.com
Donor Stories


text:
Zooey Deschanel loves Oribe!
Zooey Deschanel and stylist Aaron Light are loving Oribe's Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray on set of the New Girl. We love her style, voice and her hair is amazing. Full bangs are a great way to start your new year! Stop by and pick the most coveted celebrity line of hair products - Oribe.
Pin It


text:
A national day of mourning in Italy has been declared for June 4, 2012, in honor of the earthquake victims in Emilia Romagna. You can help by donating via the Italian Red Cross. [more...]
Interesting Festivals & Events in Italy
Italy's cultural events and festivals celebrate saint's feast days, film festivals, seasonal foods, dramatic opera, ballet and the recently instituted Notte Bianca, a city-wide celebration that's a great excuse to stay up all night. The evocative settings for many events are outstanding, like the Verona opera festival in a Roman amphitheatre or the Taormina film festival below the Mt Etna volcano in Sicily. Religious festivals include lavish processions and fireworks while food festivals in Italy celebrate everything from Artichokes to Zabaglione.
June 4, 2012 – National Day of Mourning in Italy
June 2 – Festa della Repubblica 2012 Celebrations in Italy
In 2012, the Festa della Repubblica celebrations in Italy held on June 2, will be a much more somber affair, with limited festivities out of respect for Italy's earthquake victims. During the Feast of the Republic, a call for national unity and solidarity will be key. [more...]
Cheese Tour & Tasting in Ragusa Sicily
Cheese tasting and a tour of the cheesemaking facilites at Corfilac in Ragusa are on the menu March 24 & 25, 2012 [more...]
Weekend with FAI 2012 – Italian National Trust Sites
The weekend of March 24 & 25, 2012 the organization called "FAI" (Italian National Trust) sponsors guided visits of 670 sites all over Italy, most of which are not normally open to the public. [more...]
Cheese Art 2012 – Traditional Cheese Tasting Workshop
Taste traditional cheeses from around the world during two days of tasting workshops at Cheese Art 2012 in Ragusa Sicily, when cheese is elevated to the status of art. [more...]
Ossobuco for International Day of Italian Cuisines
The 2012 International Day of Italian Cuisines (IDIC) is on January 17, when cooks all over the world are invited to join in the celebrations by preparing ossobuco, a traditional dish from Milan. Try our ossobuco recipe. [more...]
It's Hot: Almond Harvest in Sicily
The almond harvest in Sicily at the Mastri di San Basilio farm takes place at the height of summer. Join Anita as she ventures into the August heat in search of pizzuta almonds fresh off the tree. [more...]
Celebrations in Italy – Festival of San Sebastiano in Sicily
The festival of San Sebastiano in Sicily is a big deal - not to be missed for the colorful mix of religion and folklore - with stunning special effects that will blow your mind. Join the patron saint celebrations in Palazzolo Acreide and experience a festa you will not soon forget. [more...]
Chocolate Battles in Turin – Don't Be Square
The German Ritter chocolate maker is battling against Italian chocolate makers who make square chocolate bars, claiming the shape as their own. Ritter has threatened to fine a German chocolate seller 20,000 euros if it continues to sell square chocolate bars from other chocolate makers on its internet site. And so the chocolate battles begin. [more...]
Unique Attractions in Italy- FAI Italian National Trust's Heritage Weekend
Celebrate Italy's artistic and cultural heritage with FAI, the National Trust of Italy, and unique attractions not normally open to the public the weekend of March 26 & 27, 2011. [more...]


text: It feels like when musicians get mad at politicians using their songs without permission is kind of stupid. Because just who cares? Like just say you don't care. That would make you appear cooler. Or don't say anything at all. This happens every cycle. Politician A makes Band B mad because they played Song C as intro music. It's a really tedious cycle imo. You don't really need that as a reason/excuse to say Donald Trump is bad. You can just say he's bad whenever you want. Using 30 seconds of whatever song drowned out by idiots applause/crowd noise is literally the least offensive thing he's ever done. Just my $0.02, folks. Have a nice day.


text:
Willow Smith and her fashion-y self.
Photo: Getty Images
Willow Smith may only be 11 years old, but she's certainly got style chops! We're constantly impressed with her ever-evolving look—whether she's sporting a pink Mohawk or a Marie Antoinette-style wig, Willow is always ba-ringing her fashion game to the table. Lucky for us, we can now get a peek into the mind of Ms. Smith's fashion inspiration thanks to her recently-launched fashion blog! Willow announced the big news on Twitter last night saying, "Follow my fashion blog http://coccin-elle.tumblr.com," and we did just that. Her minimalist site includes mostly street style snapshots of models (think: Cara Delevingne and Karlie Kloss) in chic, mostly black and leather ensembles.
We're not gonna lie—the content on her blog came as QUITE the surprise to us! Her pics are filled with mostly dark and minimalist outfits, and considering Willow's wardrobe is a bit edgier and more colorful in real life, it's such interesting display of her personal inspiration. We will say one thing, though—girl LOVES pants! Almost every ensemble included some sort of skinny jeans or cuffed trousers paired with a layered jacket and tee. Also, we noticed her top picks involved flats of all types (from combat boots to high-top sneakers to sleek oxfords), which is definitely something a younger girl like Ms. Smith would wear. But, guys, look at the bigger picture here—does this mean the pint-sized singer is slowly making her way into the fashion industry?! We certainly hope so, but, um, please don't take our jobs away. *ducks* LOVE YOU, WILLOW.
Like us on Facebook so we can be friends and follow us on Twitter @MTVstyle to talk.


text:
Series note: Goldenfire picks up a few years after the end of Darkhaven; as such, both the book and this review contain plot spoilers for Darkhaven, but this is a self-contained story.
"So you understand now," the dark-velvet voice said. "You understand what you have to do."
"Yes." Kai resisted the urge to peer through the shadows cast by the single oil lamp. The Brotherhood kept their identities a closely guarded secret. Seeing one of their faces – accidentally or otherwise – would be a swift route to a slow death.
"Repeat your instructions."
Kai swallowed a nervous catch that threatened to become a cough. It wasn't the job; that would be the fulfilment of a long-held desire. It was the faceless man who was so unsettling – specifically, the note of implacability in his voice.
"I am to go to Mirrorvale. To Arkannen. I am to find a way into Darkhaven. And once there –" A pause to give proper recognition to the significance of the task. "I am to kill Ayla Nightshade, the last living Changer."
Ayla Nightshade has ruled Darkhaven for three years when she receives news of a plot to kill her. Although Ayla's shapeshifting powers make her almost invincible, there's one new kind of weapon that can harm even a Nightshade in creature form. The fortress immediately goes into lockdown, in the hope that keeping out strangers and weapons will be protection enough to keep Ayla safe while they work to unmask the assassin.
Although it's the threat to her life that drives the story forward, Ayla herself plays a comparatively small part in this book. What we do see is the impact on her personally, particularly the strain placed on her relationship with Tomas, who has to balance dual roles as her life partner and the head of her personal guard. If there's one thing Ayla values above all, it's her hard-won freedom, and even a death threat isn't enough to counterbalance the feelings she experiences when anyone tries to place restrictions on her. At the same time, we see that she is struggling to bond with her adopted son, orphaned by her brother's death, who unwittingly provides a constant reminder of her grief.
Tomas, along with trying to protect Ayla, has to fight the spectres of alcoholism and depression, struggling to believe himself worthy of the duties placed upon him. Meanwhile Art, Tomas's old mentor, is training the Helm's newest would-be recruits, while his partner Miles tries to understand the alchemy of Ayla's transformation and uncover the formulation of an alchemical defence.
Other characters from Darkhaven are back with equally important roles. The assassin Naeve Sorrow, one of my favourite characters from book one, is living beyond the borders of Mirrorvale with her lover Elisse and their daughter. Naeve is the first to discover the threat to Ayla's life, and although she isn't exactly a fan of the Nightshade family, she still takes great personal risks to try and learn more, putting herself and her family in danger. Although we don't get to see much of Elisse, she's always one of my favourites, her down-to-earth style contrasting with Naeve's occasional tendency toward melodrama.
A group of new characters are introduced in this book, in the form of new student-recruits looking to train for the Helm. There's suave and charming Zander, and angry, desperate Penn. But far and away my favourite was Ree, a young woman who submits herself to the training program in hope of becoming the first female member of the Helm… except she isn't the only woman to sign up. Saydi is Ree's opposite in many ways: pretty and flirtatious while Ree is more one of the boys, her attitude casual in contrast to Ree's single-minded determination. The way Ree responds is carefully depicted, with devastating attention to detail on both the factual and emotional fronts. It's easy to feel her pain, to see how she feels all her efforts being undermined any time Saydi makes a mistake, and to sympathise as she lashes out. As a woman who's worked in a male-dominated field for ten years, I found several of these scenes hit painfully close to home.
Goldenfire explores a number of important social issues, but never in a heavy-handed way: there are happy gay couples, and people struggling with their mental health, and women trying to stand equally alongside men, but they're all there because the story demands it, not as representation tokens or for "issue" plotlines. And it's all wrapped up in a great adventure story that kept me turning the pages late into the night, and had me in tears by the end. Definitely recommended.


text:
Building Product Mindset Through Ideation
October 20, 2016
9:00 am - 10:00 am
Hilton Lanier Grand Ballroom A-B
Products A to Z
Type: Birds of a Feather
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Innovation is a process. Learn how to participate in and get the most out of a team in early product definition. This workshop centers on rapid ideation from the problem to the solution. Participants will learn how to communicate a product or service's vision through storytelling. Take-aways include techniques for creating lightweight proto-personas, user journeys and storyboarding.
|Priya Sheth, Design Manager, Fitbit
|Teresa Aguilera, User Experience Designer, Spindle Desco
|Thogori Karago, Product Manager, LinkedIn
|Charu Jangid, Product Manager, LinkedIn
|Alexa Roman, Lead Product Designer, Burner


text:
Hello, I am new here. I have looked all other topics but I haven't found the answer on my question. So I am new in composing with PC so I want to start.
I am using Sibelius for typing notes with computer, I have written some parts for some instruments.
And my problem is: It all sounds very artificial, not like real orchestra, not so human. Dynamics is missing. And that's my question: With which program do you add dynamics (cresc., slow strings,...)? With Sibelius or other? I heard that some people use for this Cubase, I also have Cubase at home.
You are composing for a long time so I think it's a silly question but anyway. How to make it to sound more "human"? Can someone write a little tutorial for it, some examples how you do that? Thank you very much.


text:
€10 plus VAT per month
Or get access to this and 4 other applications for just €15 plus VAT per month
Receipt Bank is the fast and easy way of capturing receipt data, saving businesses up to an hour every week on average, and freeing up time for other things.
No more manually recording expenses data. Simply take a photo of receipts using your smartphone or camera and upload them in a few clicks to a secure online account.
All receipt data will be extracted for you and stored in an easily-searchable online account. Which means you can find anything you need in seconds, and there's no need to store boxes of paper receipts.
Share your expenses data with your accountant / integrate with Sage, or export it to Excel, or your accounting software, quickly and easily.
Generate expense reports in the click of a button to get a better idea of where and when your money is being spent.
With all your expenses data stored safe and secure online, it will be much easier to submit your end of year tax returns. No more frantic searches through boxes of paper receipts, less stress.
"Great Concept – a service that bring together five apps for small business, in one place, fully supported... it just works!"
Sharon Rickard
New Haven Dècor
"MyBusinessToolkit is a great service! The apps are easy to use and great for small businesses like mine."
Declan Byrne
R&B Locksmiths


text:
the film
Oregon House Panel takesby CBB Staff
Members of an Oregon House subcommittee at times this week seemed incredulous at the estimated costliness of spill employed during July and August at federal Columbia/Snake river hydro projects to provide a third passage option for outmigrating juvenile salmon.
Proponents of proposals to reduce or eliminate the summer spill program told the Interim Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water that the practice helps drive up power costs -- thus threatening a fragile economy -- while providing very little biological benefit.
Others called spill operations one of the precious few tools available to help in-river migrants and say it is necessary in the effort to preserve invaluable genetic diversity that will allow the species to persevere. Spill advocates also say that analyses produced by federal agencies to support spill reduction proposals overestimates the financial benefits and underestimates the biological costs.
The special hearing held Monday was to get the testimony of a variety of Oregon stakeholders on record, according to subcommittee chairman, Bob Jenson, R-Pendleton.
It was also intended to "try to either support or influence the governor in the position the governor will ultimately take on the issue," Jenson said. "It is some of our position that the state should take a little more aggressive position" on the issue through the governor's office and the state's Northwest Power and Conservation Council.
While he admitted the five-member subcommittee might not have a consensus on the issue, he said a clear majority felt other, cheaper measures could be employed to replace the biological benefit of spill so that the federal agencies do not have to "spend this $70 million or $80 million."
The Bonneville Power Administration has estimated that, on average, the elimination of the July/August spill program would allow the generation of additional power that could be sold for $77 million annually (a range of $55 million to $92 million). The spill comes at a time when power prices are at a peak, in large part because of high demand in California to fuel air conditioners. It is also at a time when BPA, which markets the federal power, normally has surplus power to sell. That extra revenue helps the agency keep its rates down for its Northwest customers.
BPA and the Corps of Engineers, with help from NOAA Fisheries, this winter offered for comment statistical modeling results that indicate eliminating the planned spill at three Columbia and one Snake river projects during the two months would result in 24 fewer adult returns annually of Endangered Species Act-listed Snake River fall chinook -- again the midpoint in a range of estimated impacts. Unlisted fall chinook, such as from the healthy Hanford Reach stock, would be more heavily impacted -- 19,000 fewer returns on average according to the estimates.
The BPA, Corps, Bureau of Reclamation and NOAA are pondering an array of seven alternatives developed over the winter to evaluate the value of spill to migrating salmon. The alternatives range from a continuation of the current July/August spill plan to an alternative that eliminates spill during those months. Water that is spilled to pass fish instead of being channeled through turbines represents foregone revenue generating opportunity.
Fish can also pass the dams via mechanical bypass systems and the turbines, but the vast majority of the Snake River migrants are collected at Lower Granite, Lower Monumental, Little Goose and McNary dams in summer and transported to a point below Bonneville. That transportation is one of the reasons losses are expected to be relatively low.
The spill strategy now in place is called for in NOAA's 2000 biological opinion, which includes a set of actions such as spill that the agency has said are necessary to avoid jeopardizing the survival of eight of the 12 salmon and steelhead stocks listed under the ESA. The proposals now on the table figure to counter any losses in survival caused by a reduction in spill by implementing other actions -- such as a stepped-up pikeminnow bounty fishery -- that improve salmon survivals. Pikeminnow prey heavily on juvenile salmon.
The federal agencies are expected to meet with Columbia Basin states, tribes and other stakeholders in early April, potentially with a recommended course of action for this summer. The decision would ultimately be the Corps' -- it operates the four dams. But input from all concerned has been actively solicited.
"The states are in a position to offer either support or opposition" to that proposal, Jenson said.
The Pacific Northwest Generating Cooperative's Scott Corwin pointed out that spilling at a cost of $77 million in lost generating revenues to allow an additional return of 19,000 equates to a cost of about $4,000 per fish. That operation could be replaced by two offset measures that the federal analysis says will increase the adult fall chinook return by 50,000 -- a cost of $40 per fish.
"I don't think we could convince the voting public to pay $40 a fish," much less $4,000, said Rep. Mike Schaufler, D-Happy Valley.
One of the measures, increasing the bounty for pikeminnow, proved to be effective during 2001's drought when summer spill was greatly reduced, according to BPA's Greg Delwiche. And reaching an agreement with mid-Columbia PUD to better control flows down through the Hanford Reach is estimated to boost returns by 50,000 adults.
"That would provide immediate benefits," said Jim Litchfield, a consultant speaking for the Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee. Reduced flows on weekends, when power demand is lower, results in the stranding of newly hatched salmon and a reduction in the outmigration.
Reducing harvests that take as much as 50 percent of the run should also be considered as a means of boosting survival to counter any impacts from reduced spill, Litchfield said.
"It seems to me it would be possible to negotiate with those folks," Litchfield said, and "pay them not to kill fish." He said his comments were directed primarily at lower Columbia, non-Indian commercial fishers.
Rep. Jackie Dingfelder, D-Portland, asked how the proposals being considered by the federal agencies fit in "with the development of a new plan" for avoiding jeopardy to the species as the ESA requires.
The 2000 BiOp's no-jeopardy conclusion was declared invalid by a federal judge last May because it relied improperly on certain federal and non-federal action. The judge ordered the BiOp's provisions be left in place while NOAA corrects the deficiencies under remand. The "action agencies" -- BPA, the Corps and BOR -- agreed in records of decision to implement the BiOp.
"We think it is possible to implement a spill change under the auspices of the BiOp," Delwiche said. The federal agencies are bent on making a decision soon so that they have time to implement this year proven measures such as the pikeminnow program enhancement.
The agencies feel the most important issue is to assure the court that the plan "makes up for these 10 returning adults," Delwiche said. He referred to the estimated reduced return of wild, listed Snake River fall chinook that would occur under a mid-range spill alternative. Option C would involve eliminating summer spill at Ice Harbor during both months and at the other three dams in August, when more than 90 percent of the migration has passed. A test of spill comparing spill of 50,000 cubic feet per second to the prescribed BiOp spill would be carried out at Bonneville Dam.
Option C is estimated to reduce the overall fall chinook return by 8,000 fish and allow $51 million in addition revenue generation.
The office of Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski and the state's Department of Fish and Wildlife had more than slightly differing points of view on the topic.
The governor's office has in the past and continues to support "the aggressive non-breach strategy" for management of the federal hydrosystem. Kulongoski also continues to support an evaluation of summer spill's effectiveness, a stance taken jointly by the governors of Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington in 2000 via the Four Governors' Agreement. The four-state NPCC's mainstem amendments to its fish and wildlife program also call for the investigation of the most cost-effective means of providing survival benefits for the migrating salmon.
And while the governor doesn't "think this is a prudent time to really be making major changes," given the legal status of the BiOp, he supports the federal process conditionally, according to policy adviser Jim Myron. Key among those conditions are assurances that sufficient offsets will be implemented.
"We urge the federal agencies to carefully explore spill operation alternatives and appropriate offsets before making a final decision," according to testimony presented by Natural Resources Office advisers Myron and Tom Byler. "Any perceived weakening of the commitment to the non-breach strategy as a result of this decision could risk legal challenges that might reignite the contentious, polarizing debate over dam removal. This is not an outcome we desire."
Myron said the governor will withhold final judgment until the federal agencies actually present a specific action proposal.
Testimony presented by ODFW Director Lindsay Ball and the agency's Fish Division Administrator Ed Bowles said the region should not rush headlong into the evaluation of reduced spill levels.
The spill evaluation proposals now under consideration are "not designed to get at the systemwide" information that is needed to assess the effect on smolt-to-adult survival, Bowles said. Neither are the offsets and accompanying analysis adequate to allow the region to move forward.
"They will not get the benefits they are claiming" from increasing the pikeminnow bounty, Bowles said. The ODFW, which he called the architect of the pikeminnow program, predicts the strategy could actually backfire. Eliminating spill will eliminate the turbulence where young salmon, while they get their bearings, are hidden from pikeminnow.
"You're actually going to get more predation, not less predation," Bowles said. The ODFW testimony says that while 85 percent of the fall chinook are transported, nearly half of the adult returns are from the in-river migrants.
"If in-river migrants are doing relatively well compared to transported fish, then it is even more critical to avoid undermining in-river migration conditions if avoiding jeopardy and providing recovery are desired," according to testimony presented by Ball and Bowles.
"Any reductions in spill should be:
Related Sites:
Congressman Peter DeFazio: www.house.gov/defazio
Congressman George Nethercutt: www.house.gov/nethercutt
learn more on topics covered in the film
see the video
read the script
learn the songs
discussion forum


text:
More from Saberforge: New Apprentice Hilts and Blades to Come
Lately, it seems as though each day brings a new announcement from Saberforge. I literally just published an article covering additions to the ASP line and now, Saberforge apparently has several new Apprentice level hilts on the way, along with some very, very weird blade options. Let's start with the hilts because, to me, they're the most interesting. It's really no… Read more »


text:
Welcome to Brewskie's Bar & Grill
Brewskie's Bar & Grill is easily the most fun, entertaining and enjoyable place to hang out in Utica, MN. We are not just your average burger and fries joint, we are the culmination of more than a decade old tradition of friends coming together under one roof for good times and great food. Along the way, you also make a few new ones! Our friendly, comfortable neighborhood tavern is the only place in the community, where you enter as GUESTS but leave as FRIENDS!
The Best Burgers and Pizzas in Town
We take pride in serving the BEST burgers and pizzas in Southeast Minnesota. All of our food items, from pizzas, salads to grilled dishes and burgers are prepared fresh and delicious from our kitchen. What's more; we have a great party room to make your celebrations extra special and organize karaoke contests for a fun-filled entertainment extravaganza.
Stop By Today!
Visit us today and see what all the fuss is about.


text:
19 One-Pot Dishes Perfect For Inexperienced (or Lazy!) Cooks
If you're a lazy or inexperienced cook, you know the pain and effort that is cooking one really great meal. There's the meal prep, the actual cooking (and having to do it right!), and then the cleanup. The cleanup is hands down the worst part. Especially if you don't have a dishwasher. The whole ordeal is time-consuming.
These recipes will change all of that. They can all be prepared in just one pot! And if you're feeling daring/extra lazy, you should just eat it out of this very pot. Which means no extra dishes. None. Zero. And that is only one thing that makes them so great. The flavors are truly amazing.
Once you're done making the (mostly) dinners on this list, head here to make some dessert. Read ahead to make some quick weekday meals that you have (most likely) never had before.
1. Red Pepper Pasta
If you love pasta, but get tired of spaghetti then try this flavorful dish!
The red peppers add a sweet taste and some creaminess is added by a healthy dose of cream cheese. Make this one in less than 30 minutes with fresh ingredients.
Find the easy to follow recipe here.


text:
Feral cattle get HK$20,000 GPS collars
GPS tracking systems are to be fitted to some of Hong Kong's buffalo and cattle in a scheme that is costing millions of dollars.
Hi-tech collars fitted to cattle in Sai Kung and buffalos on Lantau will feed information on the animals' movements to computers via satellite.
The project is designed to find the best way to manage the feral cattle. However, one lawmaker described it as wasteful.
Each collar costs around HK$20,000 and they will be attached to about 20 cattle and buffalo, according to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD).
In addition, a dedicated team headed by a specialist vet is to be established to look after the medical health of the feral cattle and buffalo and carry out desexing.
The AFCD said the project would cost around HK$2 million to set up and run for the first year in both Sai Kung and Lantau, then about HK$1 million a year afterwards in operational costs.
The feral animals have become an increasing source of concern because of their growing numbers and their habit of roaming freely in urban areas and roads, particularly in Sai Kung.
A statement from the AFCD justified the cost, saying it needed to devise a multi-pronged approach in managing the cattle, taking into account the varied views of the public. 'We noted public views on stray cattle are divided. There are members of the community who consider the cattle a nuisance and demand the AFCD catch and remove them regularly,' said a spokesman.
'However, there is an equally vocal group who object to the capture and disposal of the cattle and request the AFCD resort to other population control measures.
'Taking into consideration the above issues, we consider that there is a need to devise a balanced, multi-pronged approach which aims to achieve zero or negative growth in the number of stray cattle, in order to minimise public nuisance and public danger inherently caused by stray cattle, while at the same time safeguarding the cattle's welfare.'
The AFCD estimates there are about 1,200 feral cattle in Hong Kong, with about 200 in Sai Kung - descendants of cattle left when residents of the New Territories abandoned their farms and rural life decades ago.
According to Dr Howard Wong Kai-hay, the AFCD's principal veterinary officer, there has been growing concern over the cattle following a series of traffic accidents earlier this year, with 20 complaints lodged with the department since August.
To tackle the issue, the AFCD, in co-operation with Sai Kung Buffalo Watch, have been rounding up the cattle and relocating them to Sai Kung Country Park, he said. Previously, the policy was to send nuisance cattle to the slaughterhouse.
Wong said they had taken advice from the conservation department which ran similar tracking operations with wild boar. It is hoped the tracking will provide crucial information on how to manage the population more effectively and determine whether the relocation programme is effective.
'At the moment we don't have any real information. All we have is anecdotal evidence to say there are more of them. We are doing our best to minimise the nuisance but without the data we can only do so much,' he said. 'We have already started a cattle survey with a consultant in Hong Kong and recently went up in a helicopter to look for herds.
'To come up with a proper management plan, you really need to know the make-up of the each population; how many bulls a herd has; how many females; what age they are and what the breeding rate is. We hope to track them for a minimum of one calendar year to take into account seasonal variations in their movements.
'But once this survey is over we can look at different pockets of the population and work out how many bulls we need to neuter so we can prevent the population from increasing. It is a more responsible way to manage them. We hope the public appreciate our efforts. We don't want to see Hong Kong devoid of animals. We believe the cows in Sai Kung and Lantau are a part of Hong Kong.'
A spokesman for Sai Kung Buffalo Watch said last night: 'Sai Kung Buffalo Watch is appreciative of all the work and support of AFCD to address the welfare of Hong Kong's feral cattle. We are fully in support of their current programme to monitor and control the population of the cattle situation in a humane and proactive approach.'
People Power legislator Albert Chan Wai-yip said that it was wasteful to spend so much money to study the herds and their movements and asked why it could not have been done by a non-governmental organisation.
'They need HK$2 million to start the scheme. I really don't know why it takes so much money. Why do they need GPS? Cow movements are in fact very limited and many villagers are quite familiar with how they move,' he said.
But lawmaker Cyd Ho Sau-lan, who used to live in Sai Kung, said the scheme would allow cows and humans to live more harmoniously.
The number of buffalo and cattle that died in an attempt to relocate them in 2007
Most Popular
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5