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Benjamin West (American, Springfield, Pennsylvania 1738 - 1820 London)
General Thaddeus Kosciusko, 1797
Signed lower left: B. West / 1797; and inscribed on a sheet of paper on the table, center left: Gen1 Co..osko / London
Oil on panel (mahogany)
12 3/8 x 17 7/16 in. (31.5 x 44.3 cm)
R. T. Miller, Jr. Fund, 1946
View this object's K-12 Classroom Resource Sheet
Because of his valiant efforts on behalf of his country's fight for independence, the Polish general Thaddeus Kosciusko epitomized the Romantic hero. During a brief visit to London in 1797, Kosciusko received many illustrious visitors--including Benjamin West, who composed this intimate and moving portrait from memory.
The Polish general and patriot Thaddeus Kosciusko (Tadeusz Kosciuszko, 1746-1817) was one of many foreign officers who served in the American Revolutionary War.1 He was also a leader in his own country's valiant but doomed fight for independence from Russian domination during the early 1790s. Kosciusko was wounded in battle at Maciejowice in 1794 and taken to Russia as a prisoner. Upon the death of Catherine II and ascension of Paul I as czar in 1796, he was released and--still recovering from wounds received two years earlier--traveled to America via Sweden and London. Kosciusko and an entourage of Polish officers arrived in London in late May 1797, and stayed for a few weeks before sailing for Philadelphia on 19 June. During this time the noted general received visits from many prominent citizens, including Benjamin West.
West's visit on 7 June was described by the English landscape painter and diarist Joseph Farington in his journal entry for 8 June 1797:2 "West saw General Koscioscou [sic] yesterday. He went with Dr. Bancroft & Trumbull.--The Genl. was laid on a couch--had a black silk band round his head--& was drawing Landscapes, which is his principal amusement.--He speaks English, appears to be abt. 45 years of age; and abt. 5 feet 8 Inches high. One side of him is paralytic--the effect of a cannon shot passing over him--He had two stabbs in his back--one cut in his head....He lodges at the Hotel in Leicester Fields formerly the house of Hogarth. West shewed me a small picture which He yesterday began to paint from memory of Koscioscow [sic] on a Couch." Evidently Kosciusko declined to pose for a portrait for West or any other artist, or to even allow them to sketch his likeness.3 Although West (as Farington notes) composed the present painting from memory in his studio, details of the setting correspond with other surreptitious likenesses of the Polish visitor and thus the work probably offers a reasonably accurate transcription of reality.4 In West's portrait, Kosciusko reclines upon a couch, favoring his wounded back and thigh; the crutch propped against the wall at left emphasizes his convalescent state. On a stool or small table in the foreground are a Polish officer's cap--indicating the sitter's nationality--and a ceremonial sword presented to Kosciusko by a contingent of English Whigs.5 The books and papers scattered casually about the small room--some presumably the landscape sketches mentioned by Farington and others--suggest the pastimes of an invalid; the view of St. Paul's Cathedral localizes the scene and situates it during the Polish hero's brief stay in London.Kosciusko's dramatic pose, with one hand pressed to his bandaged forehead, simultaneously suggests "reverie and melancholy as well as debilitated health."6 The gesture alludes to the recurrent headaches he suffered as a result of his battle wounds, and more generally, invokes the Romantic notion of the "defeated leader": a valiant hero who has exerted great spiritual effort in an ultimately tragic cause.West painted this moving and sympathetic portrait not on commission, but to satisfy his personal admiration and respect for Kosciusko as a true contemporary hero. In this aspect, the Oberlin painting can be linked to West's dramatic, monumental scenes from contemporary history, although the unusually small scale and delicate execution of the present work, as well as its appealing informality, create a sense of intimacy unique among West's portraits of contemporary heroes.
Three days after visiting Kosciusko and commencing this portrait, on 10 June 1797, West presented the Polish general with a drawing of Hector Taking Leave of Andromache.7 As Staley has noted, this subject--probably chosen specifically by West--"translated into a Homeric vocabulary Kosciusko's own role in the doomed cause of his country's independence from Russian domination."8 In 1826, six years after Benjamin West's death, the Portrait of General Thaddeus Kosciusko was among 150 works offered for sale by the artist's sons to the United States as the foundation of a national gallery. The offer was rejected, and the paintings sold at auction in 1829.9
M. E. Wieseman
Benjamin West was born in Springfield, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia, on 10 October 1738. He went to Philadelphia around 1756, where he received a rudimentary classical education at the newly formed College of Philadelphia. West traveled to New York, probably in 1759, then returned briefly to Philadelphia before sailing for Italy on 12 April 1760. He was among the first Americans to visit Italy, and spent about three years there, primarily in Rome, Livorno (Leghorn), and Florence. In Rome, West was most influenced by the works of Titian and Correggio and, among his contemporaries, by Pompeo Batoni, Gavin Hamilton (1723-1798), and Anton Raphael Mengs (1728-1779): the last two were among the early practitioners of Neoclassicism. West subsequently journeyed north to England, where he arrived in August 1763 and resided for the remainder of his life. He achieved great professional and social success in England, in part because of the "exotic" cachet of being an American. He was a founding member of the Royal Academy in 1768, and succeeded Sir Joshua Reynolds as president of that body in 1792. He received numerous distinguished commissions for portraits and history paintings throughout his career. In 1772, he was appointed historical painter to King George III, a position he held until 1810. West died in London on 11 March 1820. In 1821, West's two artist sons, Raphael (1766-1850) and Benjamin Jr., opened a large gallery in the garden of his home, where many of West's paintings were exhibited until dispersed at auction in 1829.
During his early career, West was primarily active as a portrait painter, and he continued to produce a steady stream of likenesses through the 1780s; later compositions especially show the influence of Reynolds. The majority of West's oeuvre, however, is comprised of scenes from classical history, literary and religious subjects, and increasingly, scenes from British history and recent events. In one of his most famous pictures, The Death of General Wolfe (1770; Ottawa, National Gallery of Canada), West made a radical departure from "grand manner" history painting by depicting a scene from recent history with figures in contemporary dress. As his work developed away from Neoclassicism, West became a leading figure in the Romantic movement at the close of the eighteenth century.
General Reference
Erffa, Helmut von, and Allen Staley. The Paintings of Benjamin West. New Haven and London, 1986.
Offered for sale by West's sons to the United States in 1826
Sold by them, London (Robins), 22-25 May 1829, lot 138 (£42, to Bone [probably the miniature painter H. P. Bone] for Neeld)
Collection Joseph Neeld, M.P., Grittleton House near Chippenham, Wiltshire
By descent in this family until sold London (Christie's), 13 July 1945, lot 175 (£210, to Knoedler)
With M. Knoedler & Co., New York, from whom purchased in 1946
London, Royal Academy, 1798. Cat. no. 618.
London, West's Gallery, 1822-28. Pictures and Drawings by the late Benjamin West, Esq., President of the Royal Academy. Cat. no. 63.
The Art Institute of Chicago, 1949. From Colony to Nation. 21 April - 10 June. Cat. no. 130.
Williamsburg, Va., Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William and Mary, 1951. They Gave Us Freedom. Summer. Cat. no. 48.
The Detroit Institute of Arts, 1951. The French in America, 1520-1880. 14 July - 16 September. Cat. no. 244.
New York, M. Knoedler & Company, Inc., 1954. Paintings and Drawings from Five Centuries: Collection Allen Memorial Art Museum. 3 - 21 February. Cat. no. 54.
Kansas City, Nelson Gallery of Art and Atkins Museum, 1956. The Century of Mozart. 15 January - 14 March. Cat. no. 106.
Malmö, Sweden, Radhüs, 1956. Masterworks from American University Museums (sponsored by the College Art Association). 30 June - 15 July (also shown at Utrecht, Centraal Museum; Birmingham; London, University of London, Senate House; Durham, University of Durham, Kings College; Brussels, Palais des Beaux-Arts; Liège, Musée des Beaux-Arts; Lyon, Musée des Beaux-Arts [as cat. no. 40]; Marburg, University Museum; Tübingen, Tübingen University Museum; and Besançon). Cat. no. 48.
Utica, N.Y., Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute Museum of Art, 1960. Art Across America. 15 October - 31 December. Cat. no. 109.
New York, Graham Gallery, 1962. Benjamin West. 22 May - 30 June. Cat. no. 4.
The Cleveland Museum of Art, 1963. Style, Truth, and the Portrait. Cat. no. 47.
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, 1966. Treasures from the Allen Memorial Art Museum. 21 July - 11 September. No cat.
The Detroit Institute of Arts, 1968. Romantic Art in Britain, Paintings and Drawings 1760-1860. 9 January - 18 February (also shown at Philadelphia Museum of Art). Cat. no. 53.
The Baltimore Museum of Art, 1989. Benjamin West: American Painter at the English Court. 4 June - 20 August. Cat. no. 44.
The Literature excludes those references that illustrate the painting within an historical or biographical, rather than artistic, context.
Barlow, Joel. The Columbiad. Vol. 2. Philadelphia, 1809, p. 186.
The Port Folio 6, no. 6 (December 1811), p. 552.
Galt, John. The Life and Works of Benjamin West. Vol. 2. London, 1820, p. 231.
Graves, A. The Royal Academy of Arts. Vol. 7. London, 1906, p. 216.
Allen Memorial Art Museum Bulletin 3, no. 3 (1946), no. 18, ill.
Wittkower, Rudolf. "An Exhibition of American Art in Chicago." The Burlington Magazine 91 (1949), p. 254.
Barker, Virgil. American Painting: History and Interpretation. New York, 1950, pp. 204, 207.
Hamilton, Chloe. "A Portrait of General Kosciusko by Benjamin West." Allen Memorial Art Museum Bulletin 9, no. 3 (1952), pp. 81-91.
The Nelson Gallery and Atkins Museum Bulletin 1, no. 1 (1956), p. 32, no. 106, fig. 34.
Hamilton, Chloe. "Catalogue of R. T. Miller, Jr. Fund Acquisitions." Allen Memorial Art Museum Bulletin 16, no. 2 (Winter 1959), cat. no. 48; no. 3 (Spring 1959), ill. p. 256.
D'Otrange Mastai, M. L. "Benjamin West." Arts Review 14 (June 1962), p. 6.
Art News 61, no. 4 (Summer 1962), p. 46.
Hamilton, Chloe. "Portret Kosciuszki pedzla Benjamina Westa." Biuletyn Historii Sztuki 25, no. 1 (1963), pp. 77-82.
Stechow, Wolfgang. Catalogue of European and American Paintings and Sculpture in the Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin College. Oberlin, 1967, pp. 161-63, fig. 152.
Staley, Allen. In Romantic Art in Britain, Paintings and Drawings 1760-1860. Exh. cat., The Detroit Institute of Arts, 1968, no. 53, pp. 102-3.
Young, Mahonri Sharp. "Romantic Art from Britain." Apollo 87 (April 1968), no. 74, pp. 300-305.
This New Man: A Discourse in Portraits. Exh. cat., The National Portrait Gallery, London, 1968, p. 75, ill.
Flexner, James Thomas, and Linda Bantel Samter. In The Face of Liberty. Exh. cat., Amon Carter Museum, Fort Worth, 1975-76, pp. 53, 158, pl. 46.
Wilson, Robert. Thaddeus Kosciuszko and his Home in Philadelphia. Philadelphia, 1976, p. 20.
Dillenberger, John. Benjamin West, The Context of his Life's Work. San Antonio, 1977, pp. 201, 207.
Alberts, Robert C. Benjamin West: A Biography. Boston, 1978, pp. 221-22.
Garlick, Kenneth, and Angus Macintyre, eds. The Diary of Joseph Farington. Vol. 3. New Haven and London, 1979, p. 852.
Waterhouse, Ellis. The Dictionary of British 18th Century Painters in oils and crayons. London, 1981, p. 405, ill.
Erffa, Helmut von, and Allen Staley. The Paintings of Benjamin West. New Haven and London, 1986, pp. 130, 133, 249, 525-26, cat. no. 650.
Bialostocki, Jan. The Message of Images. Vienna, 1988, p. 227.
Staley, Allen. "Portraits by Benjamin West." The Magazine Antiques 135, no. 6 (June 1989), p. 1462.
Vaughan, William. L'Art du XIX siècle, 1780-1850. Paris, 1989, pp. 112 and 595.
Staley, Allen. In Benjamin West: American Painter at the English Court. Exh. cat., The Baltimore Museum of Art, 1989, pp. 106-7, 115, cat. no. 44.
Alberts, Robert C. In The Dictionary of Art. Edited by Jane Turner. Vol. 33. London and New York, 1996, p. 93.
Technical Data
The painting is executed on a horizontally grained mahogany panel, prepared (by the artist?) with a layer of linen fabric affixed to the front and back of the panel. A white ground appears to extend all the way around the panel, more thickly applied on the front than on the back. The paint surface is in very good condition, with some areas of cupping; there are a few small losses and minor retouches at the edges of the panel.
1.The standard biography of Kosciusko is Monica M. Gardner, Kosciusko (London, 1942).
2. Kenneth Garlick and Angus Macintyre, eds., The Diary of Joseph Farington, vol. 3 (New Haven and London, 1979), p. 852. West's companions were Dr. Edward Bancroft, an inventor and physician; and the American painter, soldier, and diplomat, John Trumbull.
3. See Chloe Hamilton, "A Portrait of General Kosciusko by Benjamin West," Allen Memorial Art Museum Bulletin 9, no. 3 (1952), p. 89; and Robert C. Alberts, Benjamin West: A Biography (Boston, 1978), p. 222.
4. Compare the portrait of Kosciusko in London by Richard Cosway (engraved by Antonei Cardon and published on 1 January 1798), and the engraving by William Sharp, dated 1800, after a wax portrait by Catherine Andras; both are discussed in Chloe Hamilton, "A Portrait of General Kosciusko by Benjamin West," Allen Memorial Art Museum Bulletin 9, no. 3 (1952), pp. 87-90, and ill. p. 83.
5.The visit is recorded by Roger de Piles in his account of Leonardo's art in Abregé de vie des peintres (1699; reprint, Hildesheim, 1969), p. 168.
6. Allen Staley, in Benjamin West: American Painter at the English Court (exh. cat., The Baltimore Museum of Art, 1989), p. 107; see also Jan Bialostocki, The Message of Images (Vienna, 1988), p. 227, on West's portrait of Kosciusko as an image of the "defeated leader."
7. Pencil, pen and ink, watercolor and bodycolor on brown paper, 31.5 x 45.5 cm; Malibu, J. Paul Getty Museum; signed upper left: From Benjn West Esq. / to / Gen1 Kosciuszko / London June 10th / 1797. See Helmut von Erffa and Allen Staley, The Paintings of Benjamin West (New Haven and London, 1986), pp. 130, 133, 249, no. 165. Kosciusko subsequently gave the drawing to Thomas Jefferson during his visit to America
8. Helmut von Erffa and Allen Staley, The Paintings of Benjamin West (New Haven and London, 1986), p. 130.
9. Helmut von Erffa and Allen Staley, The Paintings of Benjamin West (New Haven and London, 1986), pp. 150, 160.


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Did The Artist's big wins on Oscar night leave you with a hankering for more silent films? Do you long for an era when action scenes were played to piano music and witty repartee was spelled out title cards? This video parody, from Australia's RatedComedy, recuts The Avengers trailer as a classy silent feature.
I'm a bit disappointed that we never get a silent film translation for "Hulk smash!" But, in the future, all scenes of cars exploding should be accompanied by a jaunty piano tune.
[via Underwire]

subset: commoncrawl


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text: You gotta love this current UK TV commerical for Cadbury's chocolate that utilizes the classic electro track (longtime breakdance anthem) "Don't Stop the Rock"' by Freestyle as the perfect soundtrack to its two young stars' eyebrow dance. The 2009 production is by the ever innovative and popular A Glass And A Half Full production company, who last year produced the equally popular in the UK Cadbury's "Gorilla" TV spot that expertly utilized Phil Collins' "In The Air Tonight" as its backtrack, as well as the Cadbury "Trucks" commercial (below) that used Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now" as its soundtrack. So popular was the Cadbury's eyebrow dance with the public that it spawned a JiveBrow 09 contest (see highlights below) held by A Glass And A Half Full production company earlier this year.


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80's 90's, Buckles and Belts, Jackets and every thing else, post or get your favourite Michael Jackson pictures here!
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Renata has saved 🚰 3,789,500 gallons of water, 🌾 155,025 lbs of grains, 🌳 103,350 sqft of rainforest land, 💭 of CO2 and 🐮 of animal lifes
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Hello! Are you using Innerforce layer alc now? Please tell me what you think about this blade? You using hurricane on fh?
I just want to try Innerforce layer alc or Harimoto Innerforce alc. Now I'm using viscaria. Thanks for your help.
what do you think about Vega pro in comparing with blufire,rasant,rakza,evolution rubbers ??? i need help
At MyTT we have had a for sale scammer who has victimized at least two members and who has been hitting sites across Europe. Be on the lookout for him in case he comes here.
He uses the names "Riky", "Erik" and "Petra".
This person is actually named Erik Zegermacher. His wife is named Petra Zegermacherova and sometimes he uses her mailing address. They live at:
Seifertova 1056
Trebon, 37901
Czech Republic
He has used the following IP addresses on table tennis forums.
The e-mail address he uses is: email@example.com (when he is "Erik") and email@example.com when he is "Riky".
Hopefully we can keep him from scamming anyone here. He tends to offer trades.
Thank you,
Regardig dhs h3 neo/prov /nat.
I'm a fan of dhs rubber, but im not sure are the rubber prov/nat exists?
I interested to dhs h3 neo nat bs (black)...
Let me know if you have any info, tom[dot]pradana[at]gmail[dot]com
For your info, see here. I banned the Andrei dude from UK who has the insane prices on blades.
hello fren you have blade DHS w997 right??can you give detail picture to my email..i want to see..compare my w997..my email email@example.com..can fren??
Hey, could u tell me how u got ur w968 second edition? Like did u order online or custom order and stuff?
Thx for taking time in reading this
Hi buddy, it seems that the post is having some problems with your address. Can you pls give me your full address. It's 6pm here in Malaysia, I'll do it 1st thing in the morning tomorrow.
Sorry about this buddy
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Date: 1 Feb 2020
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Edit: With the Demoncast doing a better job of what I tried to do (and ultimately failed at), I'll let them go their course and back off. Best wishes to them and support their podcast! It's a lot better then mine frankly and those people know their shit a lot better then I do concerning DD.
Yes sir, that's right! With permissions from Crono and lots of support from the Staff, the podcasts will be returning! Due to Crono being quite tied up with a job among many other things, Joel and myself will be hosting the podcasts!
We plan to do these a bit differently then Crono did, but rest assured they will be treated with just as much care! We already have our first guests lined up, and Joel and myself plan to have the first podcast out within the coming weeks! We hope to be doing approximately one of these every month, but if something comes up however myself or Joel will do our best to let you guys know about delays if we can!
Feel free to discuss!
Podcast Episode Listing:
Darkdemon Podcast Zero
The unofficially official first podcast! A major lack of Joel in this one, but we make up for that with having a ton of people, and the interesting idea of inviting people in midpodcast. It was quite the interesting experiment, but not one I expected to post in such an unmodified matter. Oh well, here you go!
DarkDemon Podcast Two!
A new podcast, and it only took me twenty years! This one includes Joel, Ipwnall (Mike), and Bari again! A major topic of this podcast is the DDC.


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Very wise advice, all of it. Precisely the right way to think about (and act on) the situation.
Sooner or later…sooner if you're in a leadership position…you will get wounded by "friendly fire"— unfair criticism from a boss or colleague.
Friendly fire comes in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes it shows up in your annual performance review when the boss rates you as failing to meet expectations in an area of performance where you had no idea you were falling short. Other times friendly fire shows up when a colleague criticizes you in an effort to deflect attention from his/her own shortcomings. Regardless of the cause or circumstance, friendly fire hurts. It erodes trust between people, causes rifts in relationships, and stymies effective teamwork. You can't control when friendly fire comes your way, but you can choose how to respond. Here are 8 tips on how to survive friendly fire:
1. Remember that your response shapes your reputation – Above all else, remember this point: the way you choose to respond to friendly fire will greatly shape your reputation. Take the high road and respond with integrity, empathy, and professionalism. Don't let someone else's unprofessional behavior goad you into responding in kind. Trusted leaders know that at the end of the day all they have is their integrity.
2. Don't react defensively – Defensiveness only escalates the situation and lends weight to the unjustified criticism (similar to responding to a loaded question like "Have you stopped beating your wife?"). Getting passionately fired up over friendly fire gives emotional control to the accuser and limits your ability to respond rationally and thoughtfully.
3. Listen to understand; not to rebut or defend – Our most common instinct when we experience friendly fire is to zero in on the fallacies of the other person's comments and formulate a response to defend ourselves. Instead, resist the urge to focus on the micro elements of what's being communicated and instead focus on the macro implications of the criticism. Even if the specific accusations of the criticism are off-base, there may be things you can learn and benefit from if you consider the broader message.
4. Acknowledge any truth that is present – Agreeing with any valid part of the criticism is a way to acknowledge you're hearing the feedback without agreeing to the entirety of what's being communicated or beating yourself up over the situation. Sometimes there is a kernel of truth present in friendly fire and it may be an opportunity for you to learn something new about yourself or the other person. If there are elements of the criticism that are blatantly not true, state your differences in a respectful and professional way without getting into a debate parsing the details.
5. Consider the source – Probably the sagest of all advice when it comes to unfair criticism. If the person delivering the criticism is prone to dramatization, criticizing others, being egotistical, or other unpredictable behavioral patterns, then you have more evidence to discredit their feedback. However, if the person delivering the criticism is known as a steady, stable, trustworthy professional who has been personally supportive of you in the past, you should take stock of their feedback and explore it further.
6. Probe for root causes – What's being communicated in friendly fire is often symptoms of a deeper problem or issue. When you encounter friendly fire, ask open-ended questions or statements like "Tell me more…," "Explain why that's important to you…," or "What is the impact of that?" Asking a series of "why?" questions can also help you discover the root cause of the issue.
7. Understand their world – To understand a person's motivation for being unfairly critical, it's helpful to put yourself in their shoes. Is the person unhappy? Stressed? Insecure? Vying for power or control? Frustrated? Is there a significant amount of change happening in the organization? Organizational change brings out the snipers and friendly fire increases dramatically. Criticizing and blaming others is a defense mechanism to deal with the fear of being asked to change. Even though you're the target, remember that friendly fire is often more about them than you.
8. Remember that you are more than the criticism – It's easy to get down on ourselves when we experience friendly fire. Most people strive to perform well and do what's right, and when we have a boss or colleague criticize our efforts it hurts deeply. Depending on our personality and emotional make up, it may lead to anger, bitterness, stress, resentment, self-doubt, and pity, just to name a few. Remember that this too shall past, and in the big scheme of things this is probably just a blip on the radar. Keep focused on all the positive things in your life such as the people you love, those who love you, the successes you're having at work, the joy you experience from your hobbies, your spiritual faith, and the support of your family and friends.
As the American writer Elbert Hubbard said, the only way to avoid criticism is to do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing. Getting wounded by criticism stinks; there's no two ways about it. But remembering these principles can help us keep things in perspective and maintain a strong defense against friendly fire.
How do you deal with unfair criticism? Feel free to leave a comment and share your wisdom with others.
Very wise advice, all of it. Precisely the right way to think about (and act on) the situation.
Hi Randy
A very insightful post. To be perfectly honest to me it makes a great difference who is criticizing me. I found out that people who fire at me are typically the ones that a less performing and it is easy for me to stay calm and professional. Only once someone I really admired fired at me. First of all I asked him why he spoke to me in such tone. It turned out that he was stressed out and simply not aware of it. We could sort it out in no time. My learning from this is that if you feel it hurts you it is best to be honest about it. Leader or not we are all human beings with feelings.
Have a wonderful week.
Pingback: Surviving Friendly Fire: 8 Tips for Dealing with Unfair Criticism | | Editorial Insight Blog
Terrific post! I have a follow up question, maybe for your follow up post! "What do you do when the friendly fire isn't so friendly, as in someone is trying to make you the scape goat?"
I like your information, It brought back a memory of dealing with a group of teachers who were nervous about change. They wanted everything to stay the same and do exactly what they had been doing for several years – using our "early out" days as an all day reward to those students who turned in all their work. Those that didn't complete work were left inside or a separate room to work on "packets". I proposed a compromise and told them what I'd learned over the years as an administrator dealing with parents. Parents appreciate teacher's Recognizing their children's hard work, but most parents felt that it was their job to Reward their children. We discussed the difference between Recognizing and Rewarding. I suggested 1/12 hours (versus their plan of 4 hours) to Recognize their students with some fun learning activity. I also encouraged them to offer remedial assistance, instead of packets of work, to those students who need the extra help. If the issue is not turning in work, maybe brainstorm with students on how to be more organized.
I'll have to admit, it didn't come easy to change a "culture", but over time we created a better compromise on how to Recognize our kiddos.
Hi Randy, as another reader said, "great advice". I've been the target of "friendly fire" and really had no idea on how to cope with it, so I was hurt, and became defensive. I'm sure after reading this article, that in the future (because this person has repeatedly targeted me) I will refer to what you've written here and it will be most helpful in helping me cope with it. I'm printing it and putting it in a place that I can refer back to it when needed (hopefully never). Thanks for helping point out the obvious, that isn't always "obvious" to us.
This is particularly insightful and comprehensive. It delas with the full range of issues related to criticism. As a follow-up, any different advice if the person criticizing you makes a habit of criticizing others?
Randy, great post…and timely. As a productive sales rep and the highest producer here, I constantly come "under fire". Your article helped me "just breathe" today. How do I encourage my boss to "assume innocence" instead of consistently take the position of making me wrong before learning the facts? Thank you in advance for your feedback.
Randy, Fully agree with your points. Personally I am more concerned with the people who overly flatter and compliment; with no basis or undeserved it is often disguised hostility.
This whole article is based on the premise that you will be unaware and unexpecting of the constructive feedback. In my business, and I class my business as my targets and respective kpi's, I am intimately familiar with my performance and results. Therefore any feedback is not only expected but welcomed and in addition to this meeting with a manager, I would have developed my own plan to improve. This presented at the meeting provides evidence of capability and opportunities to improve.
Randy: Micro managers are famous for doing this. My immediate supervisor overreacts which causes me to react. He then goes to his supervisor without input from me with remarks that make him look good. Then, that supervisor goes to another who asks me to "just get along and don't rock the boat." I comply, but the immediate supervisor gets his way when he was wrong. How does subordinates get the message about guys like this to supervisors? In time, I'm sure the message will get there, but it's very frustrating until then.
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Perfect. I need it daily. I printed it out and posted it in my office.
Thanks Randy I needed to hear this
Im currently in a hot friendly fire and some of the critics are not true they are personal and it hurts, people has turned against me Irene


text:
Gowhere Hip Hop sat down backstage with B.o.B in his dressing room before he took the stage at Perez Hilton's One Night In Austin.
In the interview, they find out what he and T.I. are working on, the deepest subject he wrote about for his upcoming album Strange Clouds, and more depth from him about overcoming his trials and tribulations. Check out the video here or click above!
Don't forget to follow B.o.B on Twitter: @bobatl


text:
Here's my confession: I'm a social media addict. At times, it comes close to an obsessive compulsive disorder, where there's an uncontrollable urge to refresh my Facebook and Twitter feeds within every five minutes to check the latest updates. At times, I find myself replying to updates on Twitter more than traditional messaging channels such as SMS.
So imagine what happened when Google+ went live. In no less than two days, invites to the social network created by the search giant was temporarily suspended due to the "insane demand" as quoted by Google's Vic Gundotra. Fortunately, a colleague stumbled upon an unofficial way to join Google+, and within the morning, the whole HardwareZone editorial team got into the action.
At first glance, Google+ bears a strong resemblance to Facebook. From its layout, to the way updates, photos and videos are posted onto the Google+ network, one wonders if it's a clone of Zuckerberg's social network.
That aside, what got me thinking was this: how am I supposed to manage Google+, on top of Twitter and Facebook. As of now, the sheer volume of updates that originate from the first two networks can be overwhelming. As mentioned previously, the real problem lies not with how many updates that comes in, but how one can post updates effectively, without going through multiple clients.
Even now, there's a need to differentiate your work and personal account. And that goes beyond specific clients or apps for specific social network accounts. To prevent any accidental (and at times embarrassing) updates on work accounts, it's common to adopt one specific web browser for all work-related accounts, while personal accounts are restricted to another account.
Fortunately, there's a wide variety of web browsers to choose from: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Opera, Microsoft Internet Explorer and perhaps some other relatively low-profile browsers. The point being: that's just way too many web browsers to be left on the background for too many social networks on different accounts.
And what of the mobility aspect of these social networks? Even now, we have Facebook and Twitter apps for the major mobile OSes such as Google Android, Apple iOS and Windows Phone 7. With the appearance of Google+, it stands to say that Google will attempt to conquer these mobile platforms with its own app. It's no surprise that Google+ has an app for Android devices. Unfortunately, the app is officially available only in the US. Officially, Google+ can still be used via its web app. Unofficially, there are ways to get the Android app (hint: Google for Google+ APK).
If you are going to update your life diligently on the web, it's going to take a lot more effort. And that is most likely what I'll be doing as I get used to Google+ over the weekend.
Till all social networks are one, the only worry I have is the possibility of developing a split personality from managing multiple social networks and accounts with different apps and web browsers.
Attuned to the latest mobile technology and news, Tein Hee is always on the lookout for innovation and creativity in the mobile industry.
Delivering the ideal close-quarter immersion for PC and console gamers
And get the free* Galaxy Buds+ (worth $268)
Follow Z by HP Ambassadors' creative journey to win a HP ZBook laptop!


text: Farmers harvest a sugar beet crop in Gilcrest, Colo. Matthew Staver/Landov hide caption toggle caption Matthew Staver/Landov The Salt Did Congress Just Give GMOs A Free Pass In The Courts? March 21, 2013 Congress on Thursday approved stopgap funding legislation that includes language explicitly granting the USDA authority to override a judge's ruling against genetically modified crops. Critics denounce the measure as the "Monsanto Protection Act." But it seems to be codifying powers the USDA already has exercised in the past.


text:
Bottled Up Designs Clear Depression Glass Rectangle Pendant
Brand: bottled Up designs
See more: Jewlery
From pretty vintage clear depression glass in a wide variety of serving pieces! This pendant is cut to measure 5/8" wide x 1 1/2" in length and hangs from a 2mm snake chain in the length of your choice.
Every piece of Bottled Up Designs comes with "The Story of the Glass" detailing what the glass was originally and the age of the piece in an effort to preserve the history of the glass while helping the environment.


text:
If you have more than one item, you can also send us your part number list (Spreadsheet) by uploading your list here.
Please fill out the below form with all mandatory details to get a quote for Corsair part number CMZ16GX3M2A1866C10R 2 Days To Us . All BOM can be sent via email@example.com. Feel free to call us on +1-412-212-0606. ASAP Logistic Solutions by ASAP Semiconductor provide one click purchasing platform for all hard to find, active and passive electronic components.
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This is a quotation for the goods listed above. This quotation is meant as an estimate and does not reflect a final bill or invoice. All quotations are subject to change until acceptance by ASAP Semiconductor of a binding Purchase Order, and quotations may be withdrawn or revised at the sole discretion of ASAP Semiconductor. This quotation is subject to the ASAP Semiconductor Terms & Conditions available at https://www.asapsemi.com/terms-conditions.aspx. All United States Government and Department of Defense bids are quoted as CAGE code 6RE77 from ASAP Semiconductor's Irvine, California facility. Any quotation from ASAP Semiconductor without CAGE code 6RE77 is void.


text:
Real Estate Transactions for issue of 07-26-11
July 26, 2011
16th Ward
Gary Gathers to RE 360 SS Partn. 11 L.P. at 59 Barry St. for $31,000.
William Skillman to RE 360 SS Partn. 11 L.P. at 111 Clover St. for $14,000.
Estate of Mary Ann Mamula to Diana Huertas and Shervin Iranshahr at 2735 Sumner St. for $85,000.
17th Ward
Paul Sopkowiak to Kirklin Klett at 185 18th St. S and Pius St. for $138,500.
Kristine Wier Retetagos to Daniel McGinley and Daniel McGinley Jr. at 1925 Jane St. for $235,000.
Jason Ray to WAS Properties LLC at 1109 Mary Ann St. for $280,000.
Ralph Hofmann to Chelsea Fitterer at 85 S. 11th St. for $170,000.
Anthony Corcoran to Erin Wehrle at 132 S. 12th St. for $225,000.
Geraldine Conroy to HDG Properties LLC at 129 S. 19th St. for $95,000.
18th Ward
Christina Millie Cagey aka Tedesco al to Veterans Administration at 848 Estella Ave. for $1,680 by sheriff's deed.
April West to Federal National Mortgage Assn. at 79 Harwood St. for $1,670 by sheriff's deed.
19th Ward
Edward William Flambard to Brian Kirchner at 340 Boggs Ave. for $56,250.
Gardy Construction Corp. to Daniel Denault at Clarence St. for $279,900.
Donald Shaffer to Andrew and Stephanie Wheatley at 226 Edith St. for $120,000.
Estate of William Garrow to Joseph and Carmela Giaramita at 1 Muskego Way for $20,000.
29th Ward
Brian Sweeney to Blagovesta and Lazar Gevezova at 222 Cedarcove St. for $84,000.
Pittsburgh City to Kevin and Linda Metcalfe at 1702 Concordia St. for $7,900.
Wells Fargo Bank NA trustee to EH Pooled 411 L.P. at 123 E. Agnew Ave. for $23,772.
Housing & Urban Development to Realty Choice Investment LLC at 303 Kirk Ave. for $18,000.
Harold Huber to John Cooney Jr. at 1600 Mt. Joseph St. for $53,000.
30th Ward
David Conley to Federal National Mortgage Assn. at 450 Arabella St. for $1,653 by sheriff's deed.
Mt. Oliver
Eskandar Lajmiri to Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. at 705 Brownsville Road for $1,705 by sheriff's deed.


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Blue Cohosh Root
Veterinarian Reviewed on June 15, 2012 by Paulina Nelega, RH
Posted in Uncategorized
Blue Cohosh Root (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
Blue cohosh is also called squaw root or papoose root; it is a flowering plant that also bears berry-like fruits that are colored blue. It is native in the United States and in Canada. This plant is often found in wetlands and in swamps. The blue cohosh has distinctive blue green leaves.
The Blue cohosh root is often used for medicinal uses and as a dietary supplement. The blue cohosh root is known to be effective to induce contraception and abortion.
History and Origin
Blue cohosh got its name from the bluish green leaflets that it has. Although the entire plant was used in medicinal treatments. Native American tribes first used this herb for abortion. European herbologists studied the blue cohosh root regarding its effectiveness in the treatment of illnesses and have noted that the high anti inflammatory properties of this herb makes it a powerful anti rheumatic medication as well.
Ancient Uses
The Blue cohosh root was first used by Native American tribes in the treatment of uterine inflammation and in abortion. Although there are more therapeutic uses of this herb, its contraceptive property seems to be the most impacting use of all during the ancient times.
Modern Uses
The Blue cohosh root has anti inflammatory properties that are useful in the treatment of the symptoms of rheumatism. This herb can significantly reduce the pain and swelling of affected joints. Blue cohosh is also a treatment option for worms and parasites within the human gastrointestinal system.
Blue cohosh is still used as a contraceptive treatment causing planned abortion by inducing childbirth in various cultures throughout the world today. The blue cohosh root also has the ability to cure uterine inflammation and is also an effective diuretic as well. This herb is also used to regulate menstrual flow and ease the pain of delivery during child birth.
The Blue cohosh root can also be used for gastrointestinal problems because of its antispasmodic properties treating stomach pain, stomach upset and cramps. It also contains saponins that are great in wound healing and anti- scaring medications.
The Blue cohosh root comes in teas, decoctions, pills and in tablet form as a dietary supplement.
Side Effects
Blue cohosh roots are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. It is also not recommended to be used unless supervised by a medical professional or qualified herbalist. If you want to use blue cohosh roots for your illness, it is best to consult your doctor regarding the dosage and adverse effects of blue cohosh roots with your other medications.
Overdose of blue cohosh roots may cause severe gastric upset such as nausea, vomiting and even severe stomach pain. It is encouraged to seek medical help for your illness before using blue cohosh roots as a dietary supplement. Always follow package instructions when using blue cohosh supplements and never self medicate. It is important to stick to your dose, like other herbal remedies, to get the optimum benefit of this herb as well as to prevent the possibility of over dosing. Call your local poison control service or bring a patient to a medical facility at once when and if an over dosage occurs.
Our Expert
Paulina Nelega, RH, has been in private practice as a Clinical Herbalist for over 15 years. She has developed and taught courses in herbal medicine, and her articles on health have appeared in numerous publications. She is very passionate about the healing power of nature. Ask Dr. Jan


text:
FRAMINGHAM - Bankrupt dry cleaners Zoots says customers can pick up their dry cleaning from its stores today.
The stores will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, Friday, Feb. 2.
If customers are unable to get to Zoots on Friday, garments will be sent to the company's main office in Brockton on Tuesday. They will be available there Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Zoots home-delivery customers will have their garments shipped back to them.
All Zoots Massachusetts locations – including shops in Framingham, Bellingham, Wellesley and Worcester – closed unexpectedly after the company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Clothes that hadn't been picked up by Jan. 20 were locked inside the dry cleaners' storefront locations.
Customers will have to pay if their clothes have been cleaned.
Zoots' employees, about 125 of them, in addition to being out of a job, also had problems when deposits of their recent paychecks were reversed.


text:
Page van der Linden | May 9, 2008
By Page van der Linden • Friday, May 9, 2008 - 16:16
Whether you're a conservationist or a climate change denier, undoubtedly you've been following the ongoing efforts to officially declare Ursus maritimus (also known as the polar bear) listed as an endangered species, under the US Endangered Species Act.
In 2005, the Center for Biological Diversity petitioned for the polar bear's protection, based on research done by climate and wildlife experts worldwide (pdf). Indeed, there is international scientific agreement that the polar bear is heading toward extinction unless it is protected (details here). At last, in 2006, the US Fish and Wildlife Service responded to the Center's petition, and proposed that the polar bear be listed as endangered.
Predictably, those interested more in the welfare of the fossil fuel industry than in the survival of the polar bears have been doing their best to prevent the bears from being protected.
To make a long story short, there was an initial Senate hearing in which Senator James Inhofe and a carefully chosen "expert" did their best to confuse the issue; there was a follow-up hearing investigating the Bush administration's foot-dragging (to which a senior official didn't even bother to show up ). Finally, a federal judge put her foot down and ordered the Department of the Interior to make a final decision by May 15, 2008.
Which leads us to the latest attempt by lawmakers to keep the bears off the endangered list. If the science shows something you don't like, why, you pay scientists to come up with conclusions that match your business interests.
The Alaska State Legislature has decided to go "scientist" shopping:
Republican legislative leaders say a federal decision to declare the polar bears "threatened" by climate change would have troubling effects on Arctic oil development and the state's economic future.
Legislative leaders said they are frustrated that researchers skeptical of the doomsday scenario get marginalized as crackpots or industry shills by the media and scientific agencies. "We want to have the money to hire scientists to answer the Interior (Department) scientists," House Speaker John Harris, R-Valdez, said last week.
In other words, they want a few good climate change deniers to present "proof" that the Interior Department scientists are wrong.
Both House Speaker Harris and Senate President Lyda Green are behind the request for the $2 million. Notably, Green was a co-sponsor of a 2007 Senate Resolution to oppose listing the polar bear as threatened.
At least Harris is honest about their motives, and what he thinks of scientists:
"You know as well as I do that scientists are like lawyers," Harris said.
Rick Steiner is a conservation scientist at the University of Alaska. For months, he has been attempting to get Alaska state officials to make public any scientific reasons they have for preventing the protection of polar bears:
On Friday [May 2, 2008], Steiner released a long chain of e-mail correspondence, saying the state first promised to send internal documents and then refused. The state Department of Law is now reviewing the internal memos from scientists to see if they can be released under the state's open records laws.
"It is stunningly hypocritical that the state will spend $2 million to convene a scientific conference on this issue, but they will not release their own scientific analysis," Steiner said.
At the end of the Anchorage Daily News article, there is a summary of a conference call (with Harris and Green). Note the part I've highlighted in bold:
Non-biased? Since when were climate change skeptics "non-biased"? By definition, this conference is being paid for and convened to dispute extensive research that proves polar bears are endangered, to provide a platform for those tired old denier talking points with which we are so familiar.
Stay tuned. I'm sure we'll see soon enough that the "experts" they'll call aren't exactly "non-biased".
La plus ça change . .
La plus ça change …
Fern Mackenzie
Zog replied on Permalink
And of course, the pure
And of course, the pure apostles of Hansen are "non-biased". Bwwaaaaaaaa!
Steve L replied on Permalink
Er, huh?
Zog, does NASA do funding on the following basis?
"But the point is not to seek some non-biased measure of scientific truth. The point, said Harris, is to provide a forum for scientists whose views back [the government's] interests."
Do you think there would be an uproar anywhere on the internet if a university or the Alberta government, for example, decided to spend $2 million on funding:
"an 'academic based' conference that highlights contrarian scientific research on _______"? (Fill in the blank there with AIDS or accounting or paleontology or the holocaust … whatever you like.)
This statement says it all: "You know as well as I do that scientists are like lawyers," – talk about a war on science.
Jeff Jones replied on Permalink
Easter Island Reprise
Attempts to justify the destruction of the environment are typical of ruling elites. Just as the "leaders" of Easter Island must have told the populace there was no harm in cutting down all the coconut trees. Until the last one was felled. Capt. Cook saw the results first hand when he landed there in the 1770's. Once a verdant forest of crops and trees, it was a moonscaped gulag, with the remnants of a once proud culture living naked in some caves. Humanity's penchant of being dominated by loud, irrational voices has caused the end of many cultures. Now, our global culture is at stake. And we see the obvious fiddling by the elites while they crash the system. It is a real conundrum: how can a society see its own destruction, yet remain powerless to stop it. And at the rate we're going, a question that may never be answered.
Great article and website. Keep up the important work.
Paul S replied on Permalink
" . . . there is
" … there is international scientific agreement that the polar bear is heading toward extinction unless it is protected … "
Uh, no there isn't. The status of the polar bear merits concern, but nowhere is there any scientific consensus that extinction is in the offing.
Repeat: There is no "international scientific agreement" the polar bear is headed toward extinction. This is a fabrication not supported by scientific evidence. Sorry to pop your bubble.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Repeat: Paul S/G is wrong again
Paul S/G said: "Uh, no there isn't. The status of the polar bear merits concern, but nowhere is there any scientific consensus that extinction is in the offing".
Paul S/G you are wrong, wrong, wrong. Do you ever do any research before you post your ridiculous comments? (By the way, denier web sites do not count as "science sources").
Have you heard about or read the report "Arctic Climate Impact Assessment, Impacts of warming Arctic"? You should, you may learn something.
It shows that the scientists who actually study and have expert knowledge of the Arctic eco-systems, are in agreement that the polar bear is in danger if global warming continues. These are real scientists who actually study these things. They go out onto the ice and observe and measure the populations and health of the polar bears. What they are seeing is not good.
Of course your pseudo-science buddies (we can all name a few of those despicable people) sit in their cozy offices, tell outlandish lies while wondering how to spend the money they receive from the oil companies and others who are trying to give the impression that everything is all right and that global warming is just a big hoax.
You should feel utterly ashamed of yourself for believing in such nonsense.
I will repeat once more (in the forlorn hope that some of it might just get into your thick skulled brain and cause a few neurons to fire) the polar bear is in great danger unless global warming can be slowed or halted. And this is supported by the majority of scientists studying them.
Ian Forrester
rob replied on Permalink
Very well ...
"Have you heard about or read the report "Arctic Climate Impact Assessment, Impacts of warming Arctic"? You should, you may learn something."
Have you read it, Ian? It sounds like you are claiming you have read it.
If so, then please show us where in this report it says anything about polar bear being on the verge of extinction, or even that their population is in decline?
The reason I ask, is that I searched through the document you mention, and nowhere could I find any reference to your claim of "doomed" polar bears.
Since you would have us believe you've read the document, this shouldn't be very difficult for you. Surely, your dog-eared copy is filled with notes in the margins and highlighted sections. Certainly, you wouldn't cite that document if you weren't thoroughly familiar with it's contents and were sure that it would support your argument, would you?
Eagerly awaiting your reply, Rob
Zog replied on Permalink
Rob, you should be aware
Rob, you should be aware that Knuckledragger doesn't read. He occasionally shuffles out of his Calgary cave, scratches, grunts, snorts and then wanders off.
I'll take the word of Nunuvut government biologist Mitchell Taylor who, unlike Australian "expert" Tim Flannery and the writers of the cited report, actually lives and does surveys where the bears are. He says that the only polar bear population not thriving is the one on the southwest coast of Hudsons Bay. Even there, there's been no precipitate decline. Worldwide, polar bear numbers have more than doubled in the past 30 years. Not bad for a critter on the verge of extinction.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
You just don't understand
Mitch Taylor is using his position as a scientist to try and justify increasing the allowable kill of polar bears by hunters in Nunavut.
He does not understand, or is unwilling to be objective, when it comes to looking at the future of the total polar bear populations.
You do realize that the reason the polar bear population has increased over the past thirty years is that hunting has been largely curtailed in most of their range? However, approximately half of the polar bear populations are in decline or are showing that they will be declining soon (lower birth rates, less fat etc.)
Ian Forrester
Paul S replied on Permalink
" He (Mitch Taylor) does not
" He (Mitch Taylor) does not understand, or is unwilling to be objective, when it comes to looking at the future of the total polar bear populations. " - Ian Forrester
Yes, Ian would know. Ian has a gut feeling he is right. After all, what would that nobody Mitch Taylor know? So he's studied actual living breathing polar bears his whole adult life? So what! Ian knows better.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
No gut feeling, I just read the reports
Since you seem to have problems finding quality information here is a link to another review study on Polar Bears:
If you read it, and are able to understand what it is saying, you will discover that Mitch Taylor is in a minority of ONE when it comes to polar bear populations.
He does not use the scientific methods of researchers like Stirling and Derocher but relies on anecdotal evidence. For one who is always claiming that climate scientists do not follow the scientific method you are one stupid hypocrite.
However, you are not interested in understanding facts, only with adding confusion, misunderstanding and obfuscation to the discussion.
You are one pitiful person, I feel sorry for anyone who has to deal with your stupidity on a daily basis.
Ian Forrester
Paul S replied on Permalink
Yup, polar bears AREN'T going extinct
CMEPS is a charity, not a publisher of peer-reviewd science. That is a brochure not a scientific report.
No peer-reviewed science saying polar bears could go extinct there either. Lots of pretty pictures though. No good Ian.
Where oh where is this peer-reviewd science supported by scientific concensus demonstrating, with data, that polar bears could go extinct?
Why is this data impossible to find? Anyone?
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
52 references in that report
As any scientist knows, when reading a review, as opposed to a research paper, it is the references which are important, not who published the review.
Get back to me once you have read the references, I'm sure you will find the information you are looking for in them.
Of course, you have to take your head out of the sand and open your eyes to be able to read research reports.
Ian Forrester
Paul S replied on Permalink
You mean brochure
It's a brochure Ian, not a review, nor a research paper, with lots of pretty pictures, please try and get that part right.
And out of the 52 references in this brochure, not one provides evidence supporting the conclusion that polar bears are in danger of going extinct.
You can not provide a link to peer-reviewed, scientifically valid papers with supporting data that polar bears could go extinct because it does not exist.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Usual rubbish from Paul S/G
I won't even comment on your ridiculous mutterings concerning the report I cited. It just goes to show that your brain (assuming you have one) has dropped by about 3 feet to a place where it is more at home with your rude comments.
Here is just one reference, there are any more but why should I waste my time on a stupid, ignorant denier like you?
"Polar Bears in a Warming Climate. Integrative and Comparative Biology 2004 44(2):163-176. Andrew E. Derocher, Nicholas J. Lunn and Ian Stirling.
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) live throughout the ice-covered waters of the circumpolar Arctic, particularly in near shore annual ice over the continental shelf where biological productivity is highest. However, to a large degree under scenarios predicted by climate change models, these preferred sea ice habitats will be substantially altered. Spatial and temporal sea ice changes will lead to shifts in trophic interactions involving polar bears through reduced availability and abundance of their main prey: seals. In the short term, climatic warming may improve bear and seal habitats in higher latitudes over continental shelves if currently thick multiyear ice is replaced by annual ice with more leads, making it more suitable for seals. A cascade of impacts beginning with reduced sea ice will be manifested in reduced adipose stores leading to lowered reproductive rates because females will have less fat to invest in cubs during the winter fast. Non-pregnant bears may have to fast on land or offshore on the remaining multiyear ice through progressively longer periods of open water while they await freeze-up and a return to hunting seals. As sea ice thins, and becomes more fractured and labile, it is likely to move more in response to winds and currents so that polar bears will need to walk or swim more and thus use greater amounts of energy to maintain contact with the remaining preferred habitats. The effects of climate change are likely to show large geographic, temporal and even individual differences and be highly variable, making it difficult to develop adequate monitoring and research programs. All ursids show behavioural plasticity but given the rapid pace of ecological change in the Arctic, the long generation time, and the highly specialised nature of polar bears, it is unlikely that polar bears will survive as a species if the sea ice disappears completely as has been predicted by some".
Seems to me that that is saying the same as the various reviews I have cited, do you think maybe it was in papers like that that they found the information that they were discussing?
You get more and more pathetic with every post. Keep it up, you are a good example of how stupid the deniers are.
Ian Forrester
Paul S replied on Permalink
Kudos to Ian
Finally, a link to a real report. Thank you Ian.
Remember, this is one report only. And remember, one can not cherry pick the worst-case report to make a point. That said, I appreciate your providing the actual report.
The report does say a few other things. For example, the authors state:
= It is not possible to confidently predict whether a reduction in sea ice area would necessarily result in a corresponding reduction in the size of polar bear populations. =
= Only a few polar bear populations currently have sufficient long-term data with which a more in-depth assessment into the possible effects of climate change can be made. =
and finally:
= Overall, many of the predictions we have made in this paper are subject to a high degree of uncertainty. =
To conclude, the data is not strong for many of the author's conclusions, which they are honest enough to acknowledge. So basing all your alarmism on one report is not warranted.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Quit being so stupid
You are failing miserably in trying to convince people that you know what you are talking about.
The real scientists know that:
1. polar bears live on seals
2. the seals they eat occupy a niche where they live around the ice flow edges
3. the polar bears also frequent the ice flow edges to get their food
4. global warming is forecast to completely remove summer Arctic ice in a few short years
5. it takes thousands of years for evolutionary changes to take effect
6. with no ice there will be no seals
7. with no seals there will be no polar bears
You don't need computer models to predict what will happen if GHG's are allowed to increase. Habitat loss is the biggest contributer to species loss there is. No habitat no bears. Can you get that through your thick skull?
Ian Forrester
Short answer,
No, he can't.
But your efforts are appreciated.
Fern Mackenzie
Paul S replied on Permalink
Scientists disagree with Ian
Repeating the words of the scientists from the exact study you referenced:
= … many of the predictions we have made in this paper are subject to a high degree of uncertainty. =
= It is not possible to confidently predict whether a reduction in sea ice area would necessarily result in a corresponding reduction in the size of polar bear populations. =
The polar bear scientists in the only study you provide can't even support their claims with much confidence.
You Ian, go on to say:
= 4. global warming is forecast to completely remove summer Arctic ice in a few short years =
No it isn't. The IPCC does not predict this. The concensus of which you are so beloved does not predict this.
Distorting science to support your overly alarmist agenda isn't working Ian. We Canadians won't let your kind run the show. Sorry. :(
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Just more rubbish from Paul S/G
There is no point in having a scientific discussion with someone who is anti-science and is completely ignorant of how science operates. Go back under the rock you call home.
Ian Forrester
Paul S replied on Permalink
Score: Paul 1, Ian 0
Score: Paul 1, Ian 0
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Wrong again
The only goal you are able to score is an "own goal" when you continually repeat your utter nonsense which is shown to be wrong time and time again.
Grow up and get a life.
Ian Forrester
And also . . .
Check out the comment: Anybody hear of Nick Lunn? at the top story and follow the links to comments from an actual scientist.
Fern Mackenzie
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Why pretend that you can read?
The report can be found here:
Download "Finding 4" and you will be able to read (you can read?) about the future of the polar bears.
This document is locked so I can not quote large parts of it but here is a critical sentence:
"Polar bears are unlikely to survive as a species if there is an almost complete loss of summer sea ice cover, which is projected to occur before the end of the century by some climate models".
This forecast for loss of summer sea ice is now predicted to occur much sooner than the end of the 21st century.
Why are you, Paul S/G, TROLL and ZOG such complete idiots when it comes to reading and understanding science. Note that somewhere else ZOG was claiming to be a scientist, what a joke, he had better not let on where he got his degree since people will then avoid that institution like the plague. If he is an example of what they graduate they must be third or fourth rate at best.
Ian Forrester
rob replied on Permalink
Who can't read?
"Polar bears are unlikely to survive as a species if there is an almost complete loss of summer sea ice cover, which is projected to occur before the end of the century by some climate models".
Ian, reread the question. What you quoted above (and I presume you quoted it because that's the best you could find) does not support your claim that polar bears are in decline, or about to go extinct.
Once again, Ian, where in that document does it make any claim that polar bear populations are on the decrease or about to go extinct – as you originally asserted?
"This forecast for loss of summer sea ice is now predicted to occur much sooner than the end of the 21st century."
No, Ian. That wasn't the question, either, but I think you know that. Where in your document does it assert polar bears are presently in decline, or on the verge of extinction?
Or did you even read the report yourself?
"Why are you, Paul S/G, TROLL and ZOG such complete idiots when it comes to reading and understanding science."
Well, Ian, it's not so much that we're idiots – it just seems that way to you, because you are so much smarter than the rest of us peasants.
"Note that somewhere else ZOG was claiming to be a scientist, what a joke, he had better not let on where he got his degree since people will then avoid that institution like the plague."
Hmm, coming from a failed chemist, we can assume you speak with some authority on that subject, Ian.
Zog replied on Permalink
"..using his position as a
"..using his position as a scientist…"
The usual warmist crap. Smear all scientists who don't conform to your preconceived notion that the world is coming to an end and we're all, (including the polar bears) going to diiieeeeee.
This just out: Mitchell Taylor is being paid off by BIG OIL[tm] and BIG TOBACCO. To the gallows with him!
How does your "illustrious" career in biotech qualify you to take pot shots at a man of Taylor's calibre?
Polar Bear replied on Permalink
Polar Bears text from "Finding 4"
Try opening such documents with PDF X-Change Viewer Version 1, available free on the web.
Here is the section about Polar Bears from "Finding 4". Unedited, except to get rid of embedded returns, unless I made a blooper!
Polar Bears
Polar bears are dependent on sea ice, where they hunt ice-living seals and use ice corridors to move from one area to another. Pregnant females build their winter dens in areas with thick snow cover on land or on sea ice. When the females emerge from their dens with their cubs in spring, the mothers have not eaten for five to seven months. Their seal hunting success, which depends upon good spring ice conditions, is essential for the family's survival. Changes in ice extent and stability are thus of critical importance, and observed and projected declines in sea ice are very likely to have devastating consequences for the polar bear.
The earliest impacts of warming would be expected to occur at the southern limits of the bears' distribution, such as James and Hudson Bays in Canada, and such impacts have already been documented in recent years. The condition of adult polar bears has declined during the last two decades in the Hudson Bay area, as have the number of live births and the proportion of first-year cubs in the population. Polar bears in that region suffered 15% declines in both average weight and number of cubs born between 1981 and 1998. Later formation of sea ice in autumn and earlier break-up in spring means a longer period of annual fasting for female polar bears, and their reproductive success is tightly linked to their fat stores. Females in poor condition have smaller litters and smaller cubs that are less likely to survive. Climate change is also likely to
increase bear deaths directly. For example, increased frequency and intensity of spring rains is already causing some dens to collapse, resulting in the death of females and cubs. Earlier spring break-up of ice could separate traditional den sites from spring feeding areas, and young cubs cannot swim long distances from dens to feeding areas.
Polar bears are unlikely to survive as a species if there is an almost complete loss of summer sea-ice cover, which is projected to occur before the end of this century by some climate models. The only foreseeable option that polar bears would have is to adapt to a land-based summer lifestyle, but competition, risk of hybridization with brown and grizzly bears, and increased human interactions would then present additional threats to their survival as a species. The loss of polar bears is likely to have significant and rapid consequences for the ecosystems that they currently occupy.
Like others here, I use Firefox and the capcha feature doesn't work well with Firefox. Five attempts before I got lucky.
Paul S replied on Permalink
" Polar bears are unlikely
" Polar bears are unlikely to survive as a species if there is an almost complete loss of summer sea-ice cover, which is projected to occur before the end of this century by some climate models."
That's not a study. That's an opinion piece. Some climate models? Which ones? Not the majority of course and certainly these opinions are not the concensus of the IPCC.
Sure it's an opinion – based on stacks and stacks of research carried out in the arctic by climate scientists, laid out in a 140-page report written by the scientists who did the research. If you want specifics on which specific models GO READ THE WHOLE REPORT.
Fern Mackenzie
Paul S replied on Permalink
Uh, actually the claim about
Uh, actually the claim about the possible extinction of polar bears is not supported by the science in the study. It is based on an unproven model that is not supported by most polar bear experts.
It is a minority opinion, little more. That is why you can never actually reference the specific, peer-reviewed scientific studies that support this conclusion. Because there aren't any.
Ian Forrester replied on Permalink
Show us the reports
Paul S/G once again shows his stupidity and anti-science attitude.
If you have data to support your (wrong) conclusions re. polar bears, then cite them and let everyone see where you get your fictitious information.
Ian Forrester
Chester replied on Permalink
The aforementioned Tim Flannery wrote, "Skepticism is an indispensable element in scientific inquiry, but when the intention is to mislead rather than clarify, we have not skepticism but deceit."
Really, don't you guys have anything better to do than to perpetuate the argument that global warming isn't real, through the only forum left where you can spew your nonsense, blog comments?
Zog replied on Permalink
...that global warming isn't
…that global warming isn't real…
I know of no reputable scientist who doubts that global warming is real. The climate warms, the climate cools - all perfectly normal as any earth scientist will tell you. Right now, we seem to be in the early stages of a cooling cycle. Time will tell.
Our quarrel (and thanks to the vociferous, anti-intellectual yapping of the warmists, it really is a "quarrel") is with the promoters of the idea that the nasty human race is causing inclement weather and has the power to produce a hypothetical "ideal" climate by changing its energy consumption habits.
Chester replied on Permalink
How about this for an ideal climate?
Flooded cities, prolonged droughts, devastating heat waves, and extinction of up to half the world's species. That will be the ideal climate in a couple hundred years, according to *scientists*, unless we change course.
In paraphrase of Oliver Cromwell, I beseech you, think it possible that you may be mistaken.
Zog replied on Permalink
Sounds good to me -
Sounds good to me - especially if "extinction of half the world's species" includes chattering warmist, better class of people with their silly deaaaaath scenarios.
Oh, wait, the projected disaster will also please the "humanity stinks" faction of the greenies who, like their guru Paul Ehrlich, think that there are "too many of those others" who need to be weeded out for the sake of Mama Earth.
Baa, humbug.
Romeogolf replied on Permalink
Yes, they don't have anything better to do because disinformation, slander, and the spreading of inanity is their purpose. Really, there is no point in even acknowledging their existence. It simply encourages them even more. Much better to carry on an enlightening discussion with those who actually have an interest in developing a greater understanding of the issues.
Malibu Barbie replied on Permalink
Trivia quiz: Which will melt faster -
a) The Alaskan permafrost
b) The Arctic ice cap in summer
c) The credibility of predetermined conference findings funded by corporate-serving Alaskan legislators


text:
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I want to try to solve the following
a x^(17/6) - b x^2 - 1 == 0
a and
b are variable coefficients (which are very small and positive).
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text:
Dust: An Elysian Tail To Unleash the Furry On Steam
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Dust: An Elysian Tail[/i] To Unleash the Furry On Steam
XBLA's prettiest 2D game is finally getting a PC release.
Like many, I assumed that one of the caveats of Dust: An Elysian Tail winning Microsoft's 2009 Dream.Build.Play Challenge was that the game would end up a permanent resident of the XBLA exclusive club. Thankfully, that isn't the case. At PAX EAST, creators Dean Dodrill and Alex Kain informed the news-collecting creatures at Polygon that Dust is set for a Steam release this April.
So what's so special about Dust? Well, not only is it visually stunning (which is probably the only thing you can glean from the hectic trailer in the above right), it's also sporting a surprisingly deep combat system and a glut of Metroidvania-esque platforming. Our own Heather McLellan gave it a none-too-shabby four-and-a-half out of five.
The more beardy (or furry) among you might recognize Dean "Noogy" Dodrill as one of the animators who worked on Jazz Jackrabbit. A once active member of the furry community, Dodrill has been working on an animated film by the name of An Elysian Tail since the turn of the century. After learning how to code in 2009, he started work on Dust, an early build of which went on to win 2009's Dream-Build-Play competition, earning Dodrill a XBLA contract and a smooth $40,000.
There's no news on an exact release date for the PC version of Dust, nor any info on price or whether the spectre of Games For Windows Live will raise its ugly head.
Source: Polygon
According to destructoid it wont have games for windows live, which is awesome since that's already kept me from getting insanely twisted shadow planet.
This game rocks. It's like metroid, but with some really fun combat.
The only thing I have to say about this is...
ABOUT FUCKING TIME IT GETS TO THE PC! Now make it Steam Free and now we are talking ^_^.
This game will say hello to my wallet soon enough then.
This is one of my favourite games of last year. It's so vivid and colourful, there's humour and references aplenty and, perhaps most importantly, plays incredibly well. The voice acting isn't half bad either; I've certainly heard worse! Anyone who hasn't given Dust a try should certainly take a look.
This and Aquaria are great action rpgs, much better than the Vannilaware games they were cloned off imo.
Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes!
This is amazing. Always being told 'Oh It's XBLA exclusive forever' made me so upset. I was looking forward to this for the longest time. Jazz Jackrabbit was THE game that I grew up with. As soon as I heard about this game, I just had to have it.
You just made my day.
*Clears throat* YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES!
*reads title on main page*
I'm slightly bummed now that I bought it on XBLA, played it for half an hour, enjoyed it, said "well I'll get back to that one!" ...and then didn't.
I wasn't sure if this game wasn't so surprisingly successful I wouldn't be saying that, would I. ...this is a good sign then. I would've preferred having it on PC, though, and I really ain't payin' for it twice.
Also, I still don't understand why this game warrants the use of the term "furry" so often. It's anthropomorphic animals doing anthropomorphic animal things, yes. It's made by a furry, I suppose. Yes. But it sort of diminishes the point of the actual game, doesn't it? Unless you mean it as a term of endearment. But... I dunno. It's like "hey, a great game, also by a furry so that's news!"
Eh. I guess I wouldn't say the same thing if it was a gay person making a game about gay people... yeah, okay. Alright. I'll cop to that.
*watches embedded video*
well fuck ....
I'm probably gonna have to get that now
I was wanting to play this, but didn't quite feel like dusting off my Xbox. Wonderful.
For the pun of it.
Also, buzz word. Its one of those "internet dead horses" people love to beat on whenever they get the chance to. Calling the game "furry" is a disservice to how great this game actually is. There are references abound (the merchant one being my favorite at the moment), the combat in the game is fun and accessible, even with the depth it hints towards. And, of course, dem graphics!
There was some indiegogo project I saw a while back that some people described it as "Corpse Party + Furries" and asked if the furry part would turn them off. As if the choice of using anthropomorphic characters somehow would detract from the actual meat of the game. As if, if I might add, the idea of humanized animals only came about recently.
I don't see anyone trying to call the Egyptians "furries" for their pantheon of gods. I don't see anyone trying to call Hercule's mom a "Furry" since she slept with a swan, or Zeus a furry for wanting to shag as said swan.
Though I also guess the author was trying to bring some relevance to said pun by delving into the past of the guy behind the game. I could care less though if the guy wanted to dress up in some giant fur suit and do odd things... alright, well I only care if I was forced to be subjected to watching that, but that's besides the point! Furry =/= Game.
Well, there goes one main motivation to me to get the 360...
I'm always reminded of Sonic the Hedgehog, Starfox, and the countless other games starring anthropomorphs that almost never get labelled as "furry," ever, except maybe when talking about its effects on furries.
Hell. Never saw Looney Tunes or the plethora of animal-starring Disney cartoons face that. It's such a recent thing. And not one I'd argue with, mind - if there's a good reason to apply it. But anthropomorphism is not the same as "furry." It never has been. It certainly has its connections, no doubt, but so rarely would there be an instance where you could call an anthro character in a game a "furry" character and full well literally mean it.
Like I said before, though. If this article was about a gay man making a game starring gay people, and people complained about it saying "the gay" would "put them off," I'd say those people are fucking stupid and should get over themselves. I don't see a huge difference between that and "a furry made a game about anthro characters," so I'm actually a little reluctant to voice my complaints; I can't quite seem to put my finger on their origins. Regardless, I do have issues with it... for the life of me can't condone them, though. So that's awkward.
People talking about another persons personal life and making a spectacle out of it while trying to advertise a perfectly good game. Hello internet sensationalism! Honestly the writer probably should have just left that part out of the article as there are people who are biased against those kinds of individuals and will now likely not play the game. =(
Still, glad it got off Xbox Arcade so I can now enjoy it on the PC. Stopped using Xbox live almost a year ago.
Well, Dean Dodrill is known to be part of that community from way back, like early 90's. It's public knowledge, and like most smart members of that community, he doesn't wear it like a badge of honor. But this is Dean basically going 'yep I'm a furry artist, and here's a furry game... now watch me make it good enough that you don't care'. That's a hell of a feat, and sorta invalidates the stigma. Sometimes that community can create things everyone can enjoy. He doesn't push the label, which is a serious problem with a lot of furries... he's not in your face about it, it's just in his work.
I didn't know this guy did the art for Jazz Jackrabbit. That explains a lot really.
Furry is suppose to mean "Fandom for people who like Anthropomorphic characters" or to describe a member of that fandom.
It has become slang for many different things though and makes it very confusing as it could imply: 'Sexuality', the fandom, an anthro character, or a fetish.
The problem I have with the slang is that it creates a sort of alienation for artists who draw anything that isn't human and retroactively becomes associated with a controversial fandom in popular thought.
Gonna stop you right there. If it wasn't for Sonic SatAM, and probably Animaniacs there probably wouldn't be a deal of the population interested in furry.
Just look up Sally Acorn and Bunnie Rabbot.
Looks/sounds pretty good, but I'll wait for a few more details such as the price. Not going to say 'Take my money' when I don't know how much money they want to take.
I'm referring to the game, Sonic the Hedgehog.
Good show. I was eagerly waiting for this so it can do wholesale slaughter of Shark Attack or (subjectively speaking) Inherit the Earth or Earth Eternal. Shark Attack especially, that game had piss-fucking-poor hitbox detection *period*, and most of the development budget was spent hiring Duke Nukem as trailer guy, yet furries cared more for that trainwreck than this far-from-perfect-but-still-far-more-competently-made game, mostly because Shark Attack has fanservice called Mayhem the Shark. I will oil my hands with this game and break the jaws of those furries without regret everytime they try to give me a flimsy excuse to care more for a fanservice trainwreck than an actual product that's appropriate for their subculture, and isn't a smoldering piece of demon shit for once.
Inherit the Earth wasn't that bad. Considering it was made back in 1994 and had full voice acting and what I felt was cleaver writing, it was alright. Earth Eternal or Shark attack I can't attest for, neither played or touched, but Inherit the Earth I thought was a solid game, despite the fact the ending was ambiguous at best. Even with an ongoing web comic.
I can recommend this game to anyone who likes sidescrolling beat em ups. If you hate furries just try not to let the art style ruin the game for you, the characters are all cute and likeable and theres nothing sexual in it. The story is pretty wacky and will keep you entertained but not all that invested.
The problem with Inherit the Earth is that it spawned a bandwagon where somehow, if it's furry-centric, it has to draw as much inspirations, if not be almost like Inherit the Earth, if it's not pornographic. Either that, or it's chopped liver furries in non-furry games where you're a human hero killing them wholesale because the writers didn't bother making them compelling.
If you're asking me, ItE's problems of being a product of its time (still is, jesus christ that fucking sequel and webcomic) is highly pedestrian compared to Shark Attack, which is like a reflection of furry-centric game development circles, with the ones being genuinely competent either working as an invisible number in a large team somewhere off-shore, or is like Noogy... too few in numbers to damage the stigma that furries make terrible game developers.
Finally. I've been waiting to play this for years
Imo Vanillaware really need to get themselves a decent game designer as both Odin's Sphere and Muramasa get really repetitive once the initial graphical wow factor wears off, especially Muramasa where you fight encounters of the same enemy type. I prefered Aquria's cookery system to OS too.
Which is a shame because as a 2D nut I want to like them.
For what it's worth, I liked the Jazz Jackrabbit character designs from the first game, before Dodrill took over, better than the ones he created.
Interesting... shades of Odin Sphere and Muramasa: the Demon Blade. I'm not seeing how this might surpass either of those titles in the trailer, but it does look a solid entry in the genre. Might be worth a look if the price is right.
April is only a few days away, technically. :D
OT: Well fuck. I already bought it on the Xbox because I figured it wouldn't be coming to the PC. Now I'll have to spend even more money because I vastly prefer PC games to console games...
Metroidvania game with rpg elements and fun combat? Well im sold, im a sucker for these types of 2d games.
I'm a rather impatient person when it comes to games I want coming out... Also, it hurts hearing that from someone who already got to play it... easy for you to say, "be patient"!
*sobs while in the fetal position*
I suppose I can give you that. though the string of published furry games outside of games like say, ratchet and clank, or Sly, is limited at best. They don't understand core game mechanics or plot, and would rather just design something with furry characters without making it functional. ItE I think could have been something better but at it's time anthropomorphic animals were even more then today, considered children's things, it's possible if they didn't have that restriction they could have fleshed out their story more and made it mature. Now a days we've unfortunately progressed into the complete opposite. Where people consider furries to be fundamentally perverted instead a sub genre to achieve an end.
I'm a furry, not the convention hopping costume wearing kind. Hell looking at me you'd think of me as perhaps just a nerd, a guy who enjoys DnD, not necessarily a furry. And I have been so for nearly 12 years. I don't go out on a limb to announce it to others because hey, it's not really necessary to wave every flag you have. if the situation arrives and someone asks me out right I'll be honest. I just like the aesthetics of it, and the freedom of design of it. I draw furry characters, and have done so for a long time. Artists can get away with a bit more using anthropomorphic characters then simply using human begins, which can lead to very distinctive characters. I can only see a slightly shaven head so many times before they all look the same to me.
I also see the distinct flaw with the general furry fandom. Many people do fly their flag high, and wearing costumes and what not, whatever. We've got anime conventions of people being just as silly. As for the extreme fetishes, every walk of life under the sun has them, but none quite so well exploited like the furry genre. They have websites dedicated to furry porn and every branch there in, which I might add could easily extract the "furry" component out and they would still have said fetish just without the fuzzy coating. It does depress me that these people however broadcast their desires and taint the image of furries. It's the few that ruin the image as a whole.
I'm not suggesting that people accept furry as a main stream genre, or to more writers and designers to incorperate them into their media. Hell, I don't even expect people to understand or like them. Perhaps a little more tolerance like it seems to be paraded in school that children are suppose to be tolerant of everything. Guess some lessons don't sink in. In it's broadest scope, the fandom for the non artist is a form of roleplaying. Just as much as dungeons and dragons. You create an ideal or at least adept form of one's self you can project upon your own world or with a group of people to escape reality. It's a device used by many to have some sort of kindred connection when the rest of the world would shun or reject them for being slightly abnormal. Many do surprisingly keep to themselves despite what people would believe, only going as far as revealing themselves when they are confident they would be safe from persecution.
I do see the use of anthropomorphic characters as a means to an end when it comes to design and functionality. It allows for a wide arc of story tones from the whimsical to the serious depending on the writers needs. It can be slipped into other categories such as Science Fiction, fantasy, steam punk what have you. It can help to give a property a distinct design and personality to distinguish itself apart. Would Dust here receive perhaps even part of it's recognition if it didn't star a furry cast of characters? Perhaps, but the fact it does include it makes it recognizable at a distance. It shouldn't be used hap hazardously, it can illustrate stereotypes we use in the real world to project upon the cast of characters such as wolves and sheep, which being the victim and which the predator. A Sneaky sly raccoon perhaps, or a fox. It can lend itself to enhance the fiction it's put in if used correctly and not simply hackneyed.
My point I suppose before I loose myself on any more tangents, or TL:DR, furries as a whole have issues because they try to shoehorn the design perhaps when it isn't needed, but used correctly it can enhance the design of a story and setting to make it more distinguished and recognizable. Giving something it's own identity. They may never escape the perverse stigma that it's acquired, but I still see the furry fandom as a whole the right to exist just as much as any other geek genre out there. There are plenty of perverse art on anime alone, and video game characters sadly none quite as widely documented or broadcasted as furries. Every fandom has it's share of its, if you pardon my use of the phrase, black sheep.
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