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SPOZ's RANT ::
:: Friday, May 27, 2011
THE SEA THIEVES "THEY WILL RUN"ALBUM LAUNCH @ THE JADE MONKEY / Saturday May 21st 2011Sooo... how do I best "set the scene" for this album launch tonight and why I'm here for it? hmmm perhaps I'll start from the beginning: the night I first met the "Jade Monkey"? It was 2002 I think; not entirely too sure the month (it was a bit before this blog) but I'd been out drinking that night; that much I know for sure (at the usual east end dives? Crown & Anchor, The Austral, The Exeter!? aaaah who cares!) and there's my friend Heidi talking up this new live venue that'd just opened on Twin Street. "Wuh, what? where the fuck is THAT!?", just off Rundle Mall she tells me, "pfft... you're making that shit up!". So me and whoever I was there with at the time (Fiona? tall Fiona with the glasses!? no wait... midget Fiona? HA HA HA yeaaah that's it! or maybe it was the both of them!?) figured we'd call her "bluff" and go check it out. And so after blundering our way drunk down a back alley for what felt like forever? we arrived at its mysterious threshold. "Is this it!?". Awkward silence. Nobody knew what to do next, dumbstruck, paralysed, like it was a "portal to another dimension", so fuck it... seizing the initiative here: I threw the door open and burst in like a conquering hero. "YEAAAS!! LOOK WHAT I'VE..." only to freak the fuck out when I realised just what I've interrupted: a cardigan clad confessional huddled in a dark room, quiet as mice, I mean IMPOSSIBLY QUIET, like you could hear an angel in a million "dancing on the head of a pin" drop softly into satin, and I'd just? OH FUUUuUuuu...!! I almost ran right out the room again. But my friends pushed me back in and we found our place seated on the floor (apologising for creaking floorboards and all) as one lone figure on stage had this room in "captivated silence": black trousers, suspenders, white shirt, bow tie, bowler hat? gently strummed a ukulele. We did our best to be polite, to soak up the full magnitude of this moment in pious meditation. But "midget Fiona" just couldn't handle it anymore. She surreptitiously picked herself up off the floor, left her wine glass, inched the door slowly open, tiptoed down Twin Street until she thought she was a good safe distance away and then exploded in riotous fits of laughter. Aaaaah yes the Jade Monkey! it was an "unique experience" back then and there's been no "other" like it since! and the reason why I'm reminded of that again just now? is because what we're about to witness tonight isn't just any 'ol album launch at The Jade Monkey, OOOH FUCK NO!! for the band who's launching it, is none other than THE JADE MONKEY ITSELF!!QUIET IN THE LAB! (****) - But before we get to all that (and perhaps the answer to who's tending the bar tonight when everyone who works here is performing on stage instead!?), there's our opening act to contend with. Who in their own goofyarse way not only exemplify just the kind of band that loves to call the Jade Monkey home (ie: equally as a-grade musically adept as they're socially whack and fashion retarded... or rather like a "chess club" for guitar dweebs) but also the kind who are just that little bit hilariously fuck off loud and enthusiastic in letting you know all that (yes, the name's always meant to be a little ironic) like a pack of playfully spastic golden retrievers and/or labradors who are really REALLY HAPPY to see you; and sound kinda like a mix between Dinosaur Jr., Sonic Youth and the Foo Fighters ("woof"?). Or at least their lead singer "Destructor" Dougie Arnott SURE AS SHIT IS... as much as they've made some concessions with that tonight at least in regards to "loudness": as their three guitarists have traded in two of their "chainsaws" for acoustics. Yup this is Quiet In The Lab! and before I proceed to crack more jokes at their expense, I should point out that I actually "manage" them now. Yes, I'm their MANAGER (I think?) and yes I'm as shocked as you are! As much as I'm also confused as to how this shit actually happened? except one of us clearly lost out on a "bet" and the other one's been paying for it dearly ever since (and no I can't quite tell if it's me or them I'm referring to there). And yes, that ALSO means you should never believe a single word I say in ANY subsequent "review" I write on them... because yes I will be utterly biased; unlike all the others I've written on any OTHER band where I'm clearly not; except you'd never believe a single word of that either. So it's pretty much business as usual huh? (except now I get paid to make fun of them? AWESOME HUH!? YOU BETCHA!!). And now that I've spent a considerable part of this live review talking about everything that'll fuck up my journalistic "career" OTHER than talk about their performance tonight, how was it? aaaah pfft... WHO CARES!!Still as their "manager", I do feel obliged to tell you that they had jam for sale at the merch desk. Yes, jam... FOR SALE!! for $4 a pop (bargain!) and here's a photo! And yes they totally DID call it "Quiet In The Lab! Jam Sessions" please hold the applause; or at least until I tell you they sold 12 jars of this junk (with cinnamon!) because no they didn't have any CDs for sale, but even I admit it's a genius way to save money to record one (no really how often do you get to eat official band merchandise!?). And before you ask: no I didn't try any of this myself, WHAT YOU THINK I HAVE A DEATHWISH!? AAAAHaHAhAHahA *ahem* I mean "delicious!" just as I bet you're jealous you didn't think of it yourself huh!? So fuck it... let's make you a deal: if your band can come up with its own range of scones, bagels, baguettes, brownies, croissants, English muffins or Earl Grey? we'll totally consider doing a "joint tour". Or maybe we'll start up a "breakfast bar" for (and run by) wayward musicians: it'll be just like Pancake Kitchen, only on wheels like a pie cart, only it'll be a combi van (Dutch oven optional?) duuude it'll blow people's miiinds! Oh and as for how you can get more of this jam? they sold out unfortunately, but they WILL be cooking up a "fresh batch" for June 18th when they support Tumbleweed at Fowlers Live... yup if not for the tunes? COME FOR THE JAM!!BYE BYE MOUNTAIN (***1/2) - And speaking of shit that has absolutely nothing to do with anything else (pfft... segues are for chumps!) along comes our second act; except if ever they WERE looking into wanting to merchandise their own weirdarse shit? ("Bye Bye Mountain" diet pills, anti-viagra and crime scene corpse removal anyone!?) maybe they could release their very own specialty brand "cold & flu" tablet; or yeaaah maybe it's just me? To explain, this isn't the first time we've crossed paths: that was April 2009 at The Grace Emily (or if we go even further back? June 2007 and February 2006 at the Jade Monkey and Rocket Bar respectively, when some of their members used to be in a different band called Little Ice Age) and I haven't always picked up this "vibe" from them (in fact if memory serves me... this was once a joke I reserved at the expense of Mr Wednesday and their singer Moon's perpetually furrowed brow) but there's something about tonight's performance that makes me think grey skies, someone coughing at a bus stop, a throat lozenge, a cheesy rainbow bursting through the clouds and then the tag-line "if pain persists...". And it's not so much their soothing "alt country" lullaby sound that's doing it to me: equal parts John Denver meets My Morning Jacket, The Middle East, Mazzy Star, Fleet Foxes and Neil Young, only round out all the "rough edges". Or even the fact I had fuckall sleep last night (still writing up my last week's episodes) a fuckload of caffeine to compensate; only now it's wearing off and the beers have yet to kick in (no wait, that's got EVERYTHING TO DO WITH IT!!). No it's more the live mix, or more specifically the "live mix" where I'm at, front of stage taking photos. I mean the Jade Monkey has always been a bit of a weird room to mix, it's a venue that very much has a life of it's own (especially when competing with a crowd) but this band especially is making it very location sensitive; as depending on where you stand? you get a totally different experience. Where I'm at: sounding all heavy on the layered instrumentation, low on the vocals, kinda "shoegazy" with the gentle wooshing and swirling? it's damn near drifting me off to sleep. I mean duuude I'm literally struggling to keep my eyes open! But if I stick my head directly in front of one of the PA speakers? (and the one on the left especially that's slowly forming a "fireplace" huddle, all purring like alley cats with "Cheshire" grins?) it's nothing but magical to behold: clear and crisp with the interwoven vocal harmonies, blending seamlessly with the gentle guitar melodies, the slow pitter patter drum and bass country rhythms, like eucalyptus and honey and lemon (and cinnamon!?) *sniff* it was freaking beautiful! In fact if ever they got this band playing next year's Laneway Festival with THAT sound: cable-knit tragics all over would be foaming superlatives into their tumbler accounts at the sublime majesty of it all. So overall? I'm a little confused as to how I reconcile all these extremes into the one "Bye Bye Mountain"; as it wasn't universal, it could've sounded like whale song in the toilets and Crystal Castles in the bar fridge for all I know!? So fuck it... what I've given is more a vague "aggregate" than an absolute rating. But in the right overall acoustics, who knows!? Because at the very least they're ever so weather appropriate and my phlegm feels so much looser now!DANVERS & GHOST KNIFE (****) - Which brings us to act three. And if ever you read my last writeup, ie: in support of Cheer Advisory Council? you'd know they have this running joke of suggesting "five stars Spoz, five stars!" before every show. HA HA HA yeaaah, good luck with that!THE SEA THIEVES (*****) - Because after being "rudely" interrupted by our more than capable supports... "try the jam!" we're back to the subject at hand: the "Jade Monkey". Yup to talk about anything ELSE tonight: regarding this headliner or the album they're launching would be rather like "avoiding the elephant in the room"; or quite literally the elephant that IS the room (except obviously it's not an elephant at all, otherwise we'd be calling this place the Jade Elephant) because no really think about it, how fucking CRAZY is this shit? and if you're not quite getting it!? let's start with the source: Zac Coligan. Not only is he the lead singer of The Sea Thieves? but he's also owner and proprieter of the Jade Monkey (and if you're thinking him "performing live" is some kinda amateur hour "vanity" schtick he's pulling on the side? he also used to be in a whole bunch of OTHER Adelaide bands prior to this, the most notable of which being Bergerac) and tonight he's launching his second album AS "The Sea Thieves", here at the Jade Monkey; which like the first album was recorded at yup you guessed it: the Jade Monkey. And instead of it being just him and his wife Naomi Thompson like it was on the first album? (and yup she's owns the place too!) he's also roped in a bunch of extra musicians to form a full live band tonight, and no it doesn't take a genius to figure where he's got them all from either. Presenting? his in house sound engineers: Aidan Moyse on drums and Justin Hermes on bass; bartender: Tom Spall on guitar, violin, keys and ukulele; and two former Bergerac band members: Jed Palmer on guitar, keys and ukulele and Zoe Barry on cello and keys (who also play in Melbourne band the Alarm Birds). Or in other words? THIS is the "house band" the Jade Monkey was always destined to have (being as it is formed by and for musicians and as I discovered the first night: the kookier and more eclectic the better!) but it's also one that's very much embued with the spirit of its origin. Like the name The Sea Thieves? perhaps echoing the squeaky wooden floorboards beneath our feet like the groaning hull of an old ship, how the roof occassionally leaks in a heavy rain, how this entire building over 140 years old seems "shipwrecked" in the middle of this Adelaide CBD like a bygone relic, mischievous in its incongruity. Or how that ghostly presence seeps into their lyrics too: equally as playful as they're hauntingly anachronistic. Or their colourful choice in instruments, "stolen" from the most whimsical of sources: a singing saw, a teeny toy piano; all clunky and disjointed. Mirroring the mad clutter and cacophony you usually hear in this room around you (sometimes all but overwhelming the quieter acts on stage?) like the squeaking of a door hinge, the clinking of bottles, jingling change, the ringing of a cash register, the aimless chatter of a crowd. It's like they've grown as a musical fungus from the walls and ceiling over the past nine years and learnt to speak its language, draw upon its energy, communicate on its behalf and we can't help but be drawn into its spell tonight like a seance. So much so: all of us have hushed to a whisper in its reverent presence, to the point you can almost hear someone near shit themselves in the background attempting to count their coins paying for a drink at the bar. Yup to put it mildly: with everything coming together with such sweet synchronicity? it truly doesn't get much more magical than this! Just as me mentioning any specific details beyond that seems somehow trivial tonight. The live mix: that seemed to transcend the house speakers and seep out the walls and ceiling instead (as much as both Tom and Justin appeared to have constant "foldback issues" with it). The stage dressing: in leafy greens, extra lamp lights and a mad clutter of antique toys and technology that seemed both alien and uniquely indigenous. Or the setlist: mixing both old and new, first and second album, twelve songs or more (plus an encore). It wasn't so much a live performance as a fully functioning ecosystem: we dwelt within it, if only for a short while, we breathed in its rich atmosphere, got lost in its sweet sweet melody and better yet? we all got to take a little piece of it home with us at the end. Yup that's The Sea Thieves. If you were here and witnessed it for yourself you'll totally understand what I'm getting at here. And if not... at least you'll know just where to go now, if ever you wanna find it!2:14AM - Now with all the bands finished here for the night? I'd usually be in a mad rush to go elsewhere and no... it wouldn't take a genius to figure out WHERE that'd be either (the same old "end game": Exeter, maybe Producers, Crown & Anchor? The Ed Castle then Supermild!? pfft!). But after I'd seen the Jade Monkey's own "house band" launch their album in the same place they recorded it, only for them celebrate here afterwards as well? I mean shit duuude why would I ever want to leave!? And so I ordered up round after round of beers (and as much as I'd love to tell you who was working that bar... yeaaah perhaps I'll just leave it a mystery?) and hit the beergarden. It might have been raining, none of us noticed. Hours might have slipped by undocumented in this blog, none of us even cared! And yes that IS Nathaniel Morse from Fire! Santa Rosa, Fire! flipping me the bird when I took this photo as an afterthought and no it didn't bother me in the slightest. I mean suuure: for all the reasons I'm clearly too lazy (and no way too stoned!) to detail here in full it's not always THIS hilariously shit awesome to be here, but tonight? duuude you SO missed out!2:30AM - Of course I eventually DID leave here, as curiousity did get the better of me. And hell maybe a bunch of us did jump into mixer Matt Hills' car soon after: nab us some Hepatitis J's on West Terrace, dropped by his sound studios, played a few mad rounds of Moon Patrol (or at least we would've if his computer hadn't blown up earlier in the week and he had to reassemble the motherboard and it took him three days and he hadn't reinstalled it yet). I mean who's to say what batshit insanity we got upto? or what recordings may eventually surface!? because let's face it: if your pub, club or live venue DIDN'T feature its own "house band" tonight, it SO doesn't compare!And now that I think about it? I kinda wish I got me some of that jam.Previously on Spoz's Rant: Lady Strangelove "Sweet Decline"
:: Spoz 2:34 PM |


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After ten days in Hawaii and 2 days of travel, I got off the plane ready to GO! I thought I had choir practice in four hours. After I found there was no choir, I continued to work. There was plenty to do preparing for the next two days of ministry at Special Gathering. We are a ministry within the mentally challenged community. Our objective is evangelism and discipleship of this important sub-culture.
Things went well. I even slept. Then Monday came. Sunday was a less-sleep night, with two hours, rather than my usual six to seven. Chalking it up to jet-lag, I endeavored to keep moving. I had a schedule of things that needed to be done. On top of my list was preparing a month of sermons. I had one of the sermons finished. Therefore, there were only four more to go. This usually takes about two hours.
Strangely, it took all day for me to complete this familiar task. There were program problems; but I can't blame everything on Bill Gates. I simply wasn't able to get back into my work routine.
Understand, I am a huge supporter of rest. The only commandment Christians break with spiritual glee is "Remember the Sabbath day…" We never acknowledge the week-long feast days the Law requires. Even the Jewish people ignored the seventh year of prescribed rest and the 50th Year of Jubilee. I know that we are no longer under the bondage of the Law. But the Spirit of the Law should live and reign in our hearts.
Therefore, I firmly believe in the importance of taking time for rest, reflection and relaxation. However, at the end of the vacation, I'm ready to get back to a productive work day which is why I was distressed that I was not able to print my sermons at 6:30pm or 7:00 or 7:30. I hoping that today will be a more productive day. However, whether I'm able to complete my yesterday's list or not "This is the day that the Lord has made." I will rejoice and be glad in it.

subset: commoncrawl


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Suite 5.0 is Out! Material Design, New TreeView Control and More
Major update of dhtmlxSuite library is finally rolling out, and we are happy to present a new version with lots of awesome updates! Starting from 5.0, our JavaScript UI library is available in new Google's Material skin, supports Font Awesome icon fonts, has a new Tree component and many other updates that we'll describe further.


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Thursday, March 01, 2012
The Road to SXSW - Travel Tips - Aired 03012012
An On Air Google Plus Video Hangout. The first in a series, with tips for SXSW 2012.
If you are a n00b to South by Southwest or a seasoned vet, be sure to join +Steve Garfield's #sxswlive Hangout's LIVE at 2pm EST every single day from now through Thursday March 8th. The show is all about tips and tricks for getting the best out of SxSW, knowing where and what the best parties and panels are, and figuring out exactly what the heck to do there!
The cast of characters will rotate around but does include +C.C. Chapman, +Ja-Nae Duane, +Jeff Cutler, +Zane Aveton, +Jeffrey Powers, +melissa pierce, +Amy Porterfield as well as +Steve Garfield and +Lynette Young.
Lynette Young hosting the technical side of the show because she have Hangout On Air abilities & loves the project! So be sure to tune into her Google+ stream or Steve's every day at 2pm EST to watch!
Want to watch the archives?
Got to SteveGarfield.tv to watch all The Road to SXSW shows. There's one for every day of SXSW up to Wednesday March 14th.
Follow Steve on Google+ http://stevegarfield.com/gplus.
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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HR&HSW Health, safety and wellbeing Norfolk Support Line
Norfolk Support Line
Norfolk Support Line is a confidential and independent counselling and information service available to all Norfolk County Council employees. The service is provided by an external organisation, Validium, with telephone, face-to-face or e-mail counselling available. Individuals can contact the service with home or work related issues. Further details can be found below.
Also in this Section
- Covid-19 coronavirus health and safety guidance
- Curriculum codes of practice
- E-learning (Health, Safety and Wellbeing)
- Food safety
- General risk assessment
- Incidents and emergencies
- Musculoskeletal Injury Rehabilitation Service (IPRS)
- Norfolk Support Line
- People
- Premises and work environments
- Responsibilities and organisation
- Wellbeing and worklife support
- Work activities
- Work equipment


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Blue & Silver
Joanna Sheen is this week's Sponsor and she will be donating a £10 voucher to spend in her online store, to one lucky randomly selected winner.
Now, I have to admit that I am beginning to get a tad fed up with making Christmas cards, so inspired by you tube videos and armed with a stack of loo rolls, I decided to have an attempt at making a Christmas cracker. It was good fun, although I did feel that you needed more than 2 paws for the rolling up and taping down. I managed to get some cracker snaps for the inside from ebay, the blue pearlescent paper is wrapping paper, & the tinsel string is by papermania. I had to use a bear on my first cracker (of course!) so I've used Paulo, who you can find at Lexi's store here. He's on sale at the moment, along with all Lexi's images, so grab yourself some bargains. He's coloured with promarkers and glitter pen and mounted on nesties.
The white pearlescent paper strips on the end are from my scrap box and have been embossed with a Snowman border brass stencil that I picked up in Hobbycrafts sale last year for 9p!!
Hope you can join us over at Lexi's this time!
I'd also like to give a BIG friendly wave to all the new members of the design team:I'd also like to enter my cracker in the following challenges:


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Emma Watson has taken up pole-dancing.
The 22-year-old actress - who is dating American student Will Adamovicz - decided to take up the raunchy hobby after one of her co-stars on new movie 'The Bling Ring' recommended it for keeping fit.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Like on all film sets, there's often so much time spent doing nothing. One of the other actresses on the set has been pole-dancing as a sport for a while and Emma decided to give it a go as well. She's amazed with the results because it has toned up her body so well.
"She never thought she would enjoy it but she finds it quite liberating."
This isn't the first time Emma has shown interest in the saucy dance.
Last summer, following the New York premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' she partied at a pole-dancing club with pals.
A source said at the time: "She was really enjoying herself. There were a few scantily-clad girls around but Emma didn't bat an eyelid.
"There are a few poles in the club but she didn't have a go. After such a big night it's no wonder she wanted to let her hair down.
"She had a smile on her face the whole time before calling it a night around 2am."


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4 Simple Steps
We know some of the clients are not an architect or engineer by profession. So we've decided to walk you through the steps and a quick tour of how the entire stuff works. To keep things simple, we've divided into 4 simple steps.
Upon confirmation of order, we'll begin to design your lift and provide you a technical drawing.
Once technical details are finalized, we'll begin our fabrications in the factory as per the approved drawing.
After the fabrication is done, we'll arrange for delivery to site. Then we'll begin the installation process.
Lift will be operational when it's completed. Routine maintenance will be provided to service the lift regularly.


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Interior decorations can have a big impact on the mood of the people that inhabit a property. Neutral colours and earth tones are a good choice if you want to create a comfortable, relaxing setting. These are also shades that people appreciate because they blend with a much wider range of furnishings and accessories.
Bright colours are far more stimulating. This is why when people choose a bright colour they typically go with a feature wall rather than decorating the entire room. This allows them to incorporate a touch of colour without overstimulation and making it hard for people in the room to relax.
Soft yellows are also great as they symbolise happiness. This makes them particularly popular for porches, reception rooms and even kitchens. Darker colours and reds can create a dramatic effect, but you may wish to combine them with lighter colour for contrast and to add some brightness.
As well as the colours themselves the actual act of planning decorations and doing the job can improve your mood. Designing spaces is liberating and gives you the chance to exercise your creativity. It also shows that spaces are a work in progress and can be improved with care and planning. The decorating is refreshing too because you can see the new space take shape and your ideas come to life.
Once the job is finished you get to spend time in a new space that will help to improve your mood. On top of this is the added bonus of any praise you receive from guests for the design and decoration.
If you are planning on decorating and would rather entrust the project to an experienced professional you can put your faith in our team of decorators in Cambridge. We enjoy working with clients to discover their ideas and help to shape them, resulting in stunning designs that boost your mood and help you to feel happy in your home or workplace. Once you are happy with this we will do the decorating, ensuring everything is finished to a high standard.


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Notice: On April 23, 2014, Statalist moved from an email list to a forum, based at statalist.org.
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st: RE: Overlapping averages
"Mak, Timothy" <firstname.lastname@example.com>
"'firstname.lastname@example.com'" <email@example.com>
st: RE: Overlapping averages
Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:42:28 +0000
I don't offer to solve your problem, but here are a few suggestions:
1. Throughout you seem to make the assumption that measurements are without error. This could be true, but even if it is true, I wonder if it might be more helpful to think of it as imperfect measurements of something underlying. e.g. You want to know the average hours of use from day 7 to day 10. However, is that a measure of some underlying 'compliance' quality? Can we think of it as an imperfect measurement of the 'compliance' quality? Anyway, the point is, if your measurements are with error, then your criterion 1 is not necessarily sensible, and you might not have to worry about its violation.
2. You may have to think about how to explain to your audience your choice of weights. None of the weights you've proposed below seems to have any theoretical justification (in terms of mathematics), as far as I can see, although your second option appears to have some heuristical justification -- relevance is measured by the amount of overlap time over total measurement time, and you're basically weighting by relevance... Perhaps that's the easiest option to explain to your audience. Perhaps.
3. If you really want a weighting system with theoretical justification, I fear you might have to set up a model of some kind in terms of stochastic processes, and this might be an overkill for your purpose...
Hope that helps.
-----Original Message-----
From: email@example.com [mailto:email@example.com] On Behalf Of Matthew Bombyk
Sent: 28 June 2011 04:17
To: firstname.lastname@example.com
Subject: st: Overlapping averages
Dear Statalist,
I have a pretty long and complicated question:
My research group has data on the level of average treatment
compliance per day (average hours of use of a personal medical device)
for a number of subjects over various time intervals. So we might have
a subject that was observed from day 3 to 10 and had an average daily
usage of 5 hours over that period. We don't have the actual usage data
on a given day. We have other panel data on these subjects and want to
assign an average treatment compliance number to each day.
Many subjects have two time intervals that overlap, say one starts on
day 3 and ends day 10, the other starts day 7 and ends day 20. We have
average usage over both of these periods. I've done some algebra and
found that it is impossible to calculate the average exactly for the
overlapping time interval, 7 to 10 in our example. But, I am wondering
if there is a "best way" to incorporate the information I have into a
better estimate than just assigning one of the period's values to the
overlap, or doing a simple average?
I have a few criteria that I thought would be useful:
1) if the two intervals have the same start or end date, we CAN
calculate the overlap exactly (namely the shorter interval). So the
weighted average should collapse to this when appropriate.
2) If the intervals are the same length, we should just get a simple average.
3) if interval 1 is smaller than interval 2, interval 1 should get more weight.
I thought about using w1=t22/(t11+t22) and w2=t11/(t11+t22), where w1
is the weight on the first average, and t11 and t22 are the lengths of
the nonoverlapping portions of the first and second time intervals,
respectively, and t12 is the length of the overlap.
Period 1
Period 2 _________________________
(These might turn out poorly, if so sorry, just ignore them!)
The problem with this is that if the overlap is really large compared
to the non-overlapping portions, we can put way too much weight on the
shorter interval if the nonoverlapping portions have a very high
ratio, even if they only differ absolutely by a small amount.
We also thought about using w1=t12/(t12+t11) but this fails on
criterion #1 above.
Any comments appreciated. Thanks!
Matt Bombyk
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Synergy is such an over-used word, but the idea is so important you can't stop using it in protest, especially when you witness how a band comes together as something greater than the individuals. On her latest album, Aiofe O'Donovan (pronounce Ee-fah if you're new to her music) has captured that magic in a single night's performance at The Sinclair in Cambridge, MA. Her band, consisting of guitar/vocalist Anthony Da Costa and drummer Steve Nistor, came together to support her album, In the Magic Hour. Just a few months later they realized they had something special and recorded a live album.
Man In A Neon Coat consists primarily of the content of her first two albums, Fossils and the aforementioned In the Magic Hour. Just because you've heard those, though, is no reason to bypass this album. O'Donovan's soaring vocals and songwriting prowess are critically-acclaimed for very good reason on those first two records. But she and the band take it to a new level now.
Da Costa's guitar turns The King Of All Birds into a rock and roll number that suddenly you could imagine Bono belting out in an arena. Da Costa adds some fuzz to Porch Light for a texture the acoustic version doesn't have. Nestor starts Detour Sign with a percussive element that gives it a blue collar sound. Even my favorite O'Donovan song, Magic Hour, comes across with a richness I hadn't heard before with layers of aural magic to accompany the lyrics. Briar Rose gives off a hint of New Orleans second line now.
The first couple of times I heard her music, people would always add that Aoife was the lead singer of Crooked Still. With Man In A Neon Coat, that time has passed. O'Donovan is a talent in her own right, and there's no better way to catch up on what you missed than to pick up this recording that shows what it's like when a great venue and a great band come together.
About the author: I've actually driven from Tehatchapee to Tonopah. And I've seen Dallas from a DC-9 at night.


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The Girls of Atomic City, The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II by Denise Kiernan
What are the odds today of the Federal government funding, constructing, and populating a secret city of 75,000 people without the general public knowing about it or its top secret mission?
But in 1942 it was possible, and it was called Clinton Engineer Works (CEW), located in what is now known as Oak Ridge, TN. The operation was The Manhattan Project.
Between the Fall of 1942 and early 1943, the U.S. government seized 56,000 acres in East Tennessee or 92 square miles for three plants devoted to processing uranium, referred to at CEW as "tubealloy" or the "Product," for the atomic bomb. When completed, one of the plants K-25 would be the largest building in the world.
And who would staff these enormous facilities? Principally "girls."
In 1943, there was a shortage of male workers as most young men were in the armed services. So out of necessity, the government turned to women.
But due to its super secret mission, recruiting workers to CEW was more of a challenge than for other wartime factories.
Job descriptions were vague, and the location of the work site was almost never mentioned. So it took a leap of faith on the part of the job applicant. As it turned out, thousands of women took the leap.
They came for different reasons, to get away from home, for the adventure, to help the war effort, or the generous pay. Most were barely out of high school, and it was their first time away from home. From Iowa to Alabama, these young women boarded trains to an undisclosed destination.
And despite what hesitation the military may have had about these girls handling sophisticated equipment and dangerous materials, they got the job done.
In one experiment, management set up a production contest (unbeknownst to the participants) pitting the scientists against the "farm girls." Operating the same equipment in different locations, the girls output handily exceeded that of the PhDs. The head scientist was surprised at the outcome. The military man who recruited and trained the girls was not.
In organizing the book, Kiernan alternates the stories of nine women with the broader history of the Manhattan Project.
The book is a bit choppy but enjoyable nonetheless. Kiernan offers a fresh perspective on a remarkable almost surreal slice of American history.
Denise Kiernan is the author of Signing Their Lives Away and Signing Their Rights Away. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and other national publications.
Atlanta Journal Constitution: "Kiernan's book, the result of seven years of research and interviews with the surviving 'girls,' sparkles with their bright WWII slang and spirit, and takes readers behind the scenes into the hive-like encampments and cubicles where they spent their days and nights….The Girls of Atomic City brings to light a forgotten chapter in our history that combines a vivid, novelistic story with often troubling science. "


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Non Surgical Bunion Treatment – When Is It Recommended?
When the bones or tissues around the base of the big toe become enlarged, it's known as a bunion, and these tender toe terrors are thought to be caused by various types of questionable footwear, particularly the ill fitting sort or those that are pointy toed or oddly shaped.
There are various forms of both surgical and non surgical bunion treatment, and which is right for you will depend on how much having a bunion affects your quality of life. For people who experience only mild discomfort, various types of traditional and laser bunion surgery will likely be avoided due to not only the associated cost, but also the potential downsides of such a procedure such as problems walking after bunion surgery, lengthily recovery time, potentially adverse risks and bunion surgery complications (some of which can be severe such as having excessive pain, a numb big toe or tingling, infection and improper wound healing.)
For those looking for a non surgical bunion treatment, a trip to the pharmacy or the drug store will yield many potential devices and products designed specifically for those who have been recommended these types of treatment over surgery. Products like socks made specially to support bunion-laden feet, along with pads made of moleskin or other foot friendly materials that can provide cushion and support to the area where the bunion resides. Since swelling can occur in people with these foot maladies, particularly after a long day of walking or a day of shoe encased feet, over the counter NSAID's can help alleviate the discomfort and mild pain and even help with swelling as temporary forms of non surgical bunion treatment. Another option for swelling relief can be employing the use of ice packs, which are useful for when the foot is intermittently swollen. Although not necessarily proven, some people find that relief can be found from physical therapy. This form of treatment may help people who find that walking is uncomfortable from time to time.
Most often, various forms of non surgical bunion treatment are recommended for people who have not found their quality of life compromised by having bunions, or those who only experience pain after particular triggers such as uncomfortable shoes or a long day of walking. Surgery is typically reserved for those that are unable to wear shoes at all, have immense mobility issues, or severe pain as a result of the bunions. Because of the risks involved with surgery, the costs and the long recovery time that can occur, non surgical bunion treatment is often the preferred method of treatment for most of these painful foot problems. However, surgery can be useful in people who have experienced painful symptoms or who wish to otherwise have the deformity corrected due to aesthetic reasons. It is important to remember that while symptom management is possible for some people with bunions, long term removal and correction is only possible with surgery, and that decision is one that you will need to weigh the pros and cons of to make the best choice for you.


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I was always mesmerized but never quite understood the Mad Men opening animation. But now it's all falling into place.
Designer suit-wearing, slick and handsome ad man is nameless and faceless. Since everything is built on lies, he is ultimately alone and lives constantly in the shadow of his own demise. Have you met Don Draper?
He is an anti-hero of the caliber of Tony Soprano, and why do we love him? For his charisma and his skill. He sells people on ideas. He is calculated and instinctive. He is the smartest man in the room.
As a viewer I wondered why we were being sold that Don's wife Betty was the bad guy when she filed for Divorce. Yes Don is thoughtful, and a loving father, but his identity is a fabrication and he's been a serial philanderer. If it weren't 1963, Betty would have made minced-meat out of him in court.
While the scenes documenting the final split are heartbreaking, the confrontation over Betty's "life raft" Henry Francis, and telling the kids that Dad is moving out, it is still the secondary storyline. There's Don's "other" divorce.
When Don learns from Conrad Hilton that Sterling-Cooper is being sold for the second time in a year, the wheels go in motion. It takes just a few short days to turn Sterling-Cooper into a rogue ad agency that pirates the guts of the old agency in a weekend ransack.
First Don convinces Bert Cooper, the company's patriarch to forgo his "golden tomb" to give it one more shot. Then he sells Roger Sterling. Then Layne Price, the London bottom-line-man assigned to gut (and unknowingly liquidate) Sterling-Cooper. Then he has to sell Cooper and Sterling on Price, "can any of you do what he does?"
While balancing the time spent as his family is ripped apart, Don sells the once snot-nosed, now ever-evolving account man Pete Campbell to join in, if he brings his accounts of course. And finally Peggy, who takes a little more convincing. It's great to see elitist copywriter Paul Kinsey shattered when he realizes that Don took Peggy instead of him.
Throw in the triumphant return of Joan Harris to whip their outfit into shape with her organization and logistical wizardry and voila, "Sterling-Cooper-Draper-Price."
The nameless, faceless ad man once again exudes confidence, as he sits in his position of power. And what difference does it make what his true identity is? You'll believe whatever he tells you. You'll buy whatever he's selling you.


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Teaching Us is a video blog run by a woman who is passionate about education. It isn't specifically about CS, but it is pretty interesting. I like that she's trying to highlight what is *right* about education rather than decrying about what is *wrong* in education.
The first video inspired me to want to try video blogging myself. (I did eventually come to my senses and realize that I'm a word person, not an image/video person, I don't have the technical know-how, and most importantly, I don't have the time to get the technical know-how, though I'm sure I could figure it out.)
She ran into some technical problems that delayed the second video, but the wait was worth it.
Saturday, September 2, 2006
Teaching Us
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[pocket] Disciple can transform your ministry into a multiplying movement of disciple-making groups.
Want to see more?
"Look Inside [pocket] Disciple"
[pocket] Disciple will help you multiply disciples.
It's easy to use.
(And it literally fits in your pocket.)
Anyone can make disciples by leading others through seven biblically-based experiences with Jesus. These disciples can then lead others through the same seven experiences. When multiple generations of disciples make disciples, you have a movement!
What makes [pocket] Disciple unique? It builds on relationships and interaction. It's one of the most effective and simple discipleship multiplication tools you'll find.
Use it one-on-one or with a small group of friends … and watch what happens!
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[pocket] Disciple can transform your ministry into a multiplying movement of disciple-making groups.
Want to see more?
"Look Inside [pocket] Disciple"
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I have used Erik's full "Disciple" workbook several times with friends or family who have chosen to follow Jesus. I saw a lot of fruit in friend's lives from this book. After reading through the "Pocket Disciple", I am sure that this simple version will be just as impactful! This book makes it so easy and simple for anyone to teach a friend or group of friends the basic fundamentals of what it looks like to follow Jesus. If you feel like you don't know where to start when discipling, this book is a great tool and serves as a great guide. In my experience, it can be overwhelming and out-of-place to go through an intensive bible study-type curriculum with someone who is just learning what it means to follow Jesus. A guide like "Pocket Disciple" is simple and powerful. Erik uses simple language and has clear action steps for the reader to take which makes it practical, not just head knowledge. I recommend this guide!
My only regret while reading [pocket] Disciple was that I'd not seen it a half a century earlier! Erik does a superb job adapting to today's emerging culture, without compromising eternal truth or losing focus on Christ.
Last evening I met with a friend @ Starbucks. We are using the Pocket Disciple book. As we were reading the book together and the truth of what he was reading began sinking in. He asked me … so can I have another chance … and I said yes you do! With tears in his eyes he said … that's what I want to do. A few minutes later we prayed the prayer and he invited Jesus into his heart. I encouraged him to tell a friend – he said he would and bring him next week when we meet again!
The Pocket Disciple Book has helped me be intentional and focused when teaching high school students to follow Jesus. It is a great resource and keeps me from going all over the place. It is really simple to use, which has reminded me of the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus. I've been using Pocket Disciple and we just had our first group of kids get baptized. They shared their experience in front of the entire Christian club of more than 400 High school students. It was amazing!!
We started a student led youth ministry a couple years ago in Monument, Colorado. We took several of these youth on a missions trip this summer to Baja, Mexico, with our missions organization Fuel International. When we returned, we wanted the youth to continue outreach here in the Tri-Lakes/Colorado Springs region. Every Monday night, we meet with 12-15 Core Youth/College age. We have been using the Pocket Disciple booklet on Mondays nights the last couple of months. The youth/college students have been using the booklet to share Jesus with their friends throughout the week. Then on Saturday nights, we have 35-40 youth and college students coming out for the Underground, our youth and college service. The Core are taking these young people through the Pocket Disciple book in small groups during the Saturday night service. It's been a great format for the youth to use as a guideline with their friends. Not only have we used this booklet with the youth, but we have been going through each "experience" during our Sunday morning services. We are a new church plant of about 100 people. Since going through this booklet, we have water baptized 24 people in our church and seen about 20 people receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Our adult Fuel Core Leaders have also experienced renewal, and the Holy Spirit is beginning to have more freedom to move in our services as well as in spiritual conversations with our members in the community. Erik and the Pocket Disciple booklet has been a God send!
"With all of the books I've read and all of the people I've had the chance to meet from around the world—powerful people who are CPM and DMM trainers — the Pocket Disciple is the easiest tool I have to transfer that information to another person to go do. I can lead someone in ten minutes through a demonstration of how to use the Pocket Disciple, then send them off with a new Christian who can begin to experience the basic experiences with Christ. It's a powerful tool for me and all those I've trained." – Randy Conger, Lead Pastor, Solomon's Porch Ministries, Portland, OR


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People power sees dramatic cut in beer tax
A Swedish friend of mine says that in his country that a love child has many names.
The cutting of the beer in the budget http://www2.beerguild.co.uk/?p=3928 is indeed a momentous moment, which many people can rightly claim they have contributed to and claim as theirs.
But for me the biggest contribution was made by ordinary folk, beer drinkers who lobbied Parliament in December last year.
I wrote the following piece for use in What's Brewing on the day of the lobby, it was my humble attempt to encapsulate the passion of their campaign.
"Remember this day 12/12/2012", said CAMRA Chief Executive Mike Benner, "when we lobbied more than 300 MPs. You should be very proud."
They came in their hundreds, from all parts of the United Kingdom. From the north, south, east and west more than 1,200 members journeyed to London to take part in CAMRA's mass lobby of Parliament.
Some travelled by trains and boats and even one member by plane. South Herts member Ian Boyd had flown into London that morning from Taiwan to see his MP. And 10 coaches bought members from around the country to Emmanuel Hall in Westminster, where activists gathered before walking to Parliament to see their MP.
Some made placards and posters, there were licensees and brewers but most were ordinary CAMRA members, who had taken a day off work, to ensure that MPs get the message loud and clear that over the past 40 years there have been few threats to the UK pub industry as severe as the beer duty escalator.
Parliament witnessed the largest mass lobby in CAMRA's 40 plus years, as more than 205 members had pre-arranged meetings with their MP and more than 300 MPs met with CAMRA members from their constituency.
One MP said CAMRA had created a real buzz in Parliament and it was the largest and best organised lobby of Parliament he had seen. Even Labour leader Ed Milliband wanted to get in on the act, as his office contacted CAMRA to find out if anyone from his Doncaster North constituency was attending the lobby.
North Oxfordshire branch chairman John Bellinger said the day was the "greatest opportunity, possibly ever, for ordinary people to have a positive effect on the decision makers of this country, to address this ridiculously unfair tax,
And John knows first-hand about the crippling effects of the tax. A former licensee, he used to run the Bell in Adderbury, Oxfordshire until April last year. He says the beer tax escalator contributed to exceptionally high costs making his business unviable.
"The Government needs to recognise the harm this policy is doing to well-run community pubs," said John.
South Herts member Steve Bury had made arrangements to meet his MP, James Clappison. Steve said: "I know my MP supports the campaign to scrap the beer duty escalator, but I want to ask him to canvass other MPs to get them to support the Early Day Motion (EDM) 703." The EDM call for a review of the economic and social impact of the beer duty escalator, which should report back to the Treasury before the 2013 Budget.
Rutland branch secretary Jon Whowell had travelled to London that day with three other members of the branch.
"We are only a small branch and I am really pleased with the turnout. I am really impressed by the organisation that has gone into this day," said Jon.
Alexandra Bardwell came up from West Dorset to see her MP. "He is very supportive, but I wanted to be part of the big noise," she said.
Reflecting on the undoubted success of the day CAMRA National Chairman Colin Valentine said: "Today is not the end, we must keep putting pressure on MPs, so they keep putting pressure on the Treasury. Let's not be careful out there, let's do it to them, before they do it to us."
And they did it. Not only was the escalator scrapped but beer duty was cut by 1p.
And I am sure like good campaigners, CAMRA will not stop. Laurels are not for resting on. The selling of alcohol at below cost prices by supermarkets needs to be stopped.
4 Responses
what selling of alcohol at below cost prices by supermarkets?
Incredible. I feel such an envy that I'm really stunned. In Spain, things like that are really inconceivable; I guess we're too used to apathy and to the "that they do whatever they want". From the outside, it gives me an idea of the care and affection tha British people concede to the beer, almost a cultural good with a historical relevance. Congratulations for it, and sorry for the cut. Cheer up!!


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Originally established in 1967 as a children's clothing store in Boston, the firm expanded and launched a uniform division in 1976. Since then, through hard work and established relationships with our customers, we grew to be one of New England's largest suppliers of school uniforms. Leveraging our gained experience we have expanded into the corporate and healthcare markets, providing in-fashion merchandise with the same commitment to quality.
We believe the reason our customers keep coming back is a core set of values that have been the heart of our business from the beginning. Our devoted staff embody the family values of integrity and service, uniting large company expertise with small company attentiveness.
JB Pride Uniforms takes pride in offering innovation, expertise and peace of mind to our business partners. When you partner with JB Pride Uniforms, you will undoubtedly " Wear it With Pride."


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Happy Christmas everyone!
What are you upto today? I hope you have an incredible day whatever you have planned. For me, Christmas Day and Boxing Day is about spending time with my family – doing the rounds to see everyone. I love Christmas as it is a wonderful time of year to celebrate with family, and getting in the festive spirit leading up to it.
However this year, I have feel felt the pressure and stress that builds up around buying the perfect gift for everyone, the costs involved and the general time pressures of Christmas. I always have the best will in the world to be super organised, and this will be the year that the presents are all wrapped up under the tree, however it is not the case. I am writing this on Christmas Eve Eve having just finished that last of our Christmas shopping.
This is the first year we will be hosting Christmas and cooking dinner – currently defrosting a goose and a turkey (and slightly panicking that 48 hours may not be enough time, ha!) but I am looking forward to having a bit of relaxation time over the holidays.
I am super excited what By Charlotte has in store for 2018, starting with everyday blogging! I know, I know, I started this in February. But I am determined this year and ready to get it off the ground – and why not start out just before the New Year with a blogging challenge!
I hope you all have an incredible festive period.
Much love, Charlotte x


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Monday, December 15, 2008
7 comments:
- Vicki G said...
Oh my Gosh!! This image is just adorable!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE your card and the Sketch........well..........FABOOOOOOO
Have a wonderful day!
- December 15, 2008 at 10:13 AM
- Mariska said...
Oh wow, this card is GORGEOUS Maria. I love everything about it, from the cute image to the gorgeous colours you've used. Beautiful!
- December 15, 2008 at 10:31 AM
- Nikki Fairbairn said...
Gorgeous card Maria and the image is just so cute, Your colouring is beautiful and I love the design, Hugs, Nikki x
- December 15, 2008 at 12:12 PM
- Elena said...
Adorable card! I love this girl! Love how you added Crystal Effects and the sparkles! Very beautiful sketch!
- December 15, 2008 at 4:03 PM
Oh, this is the cutest card! I love how you colored Pam and made her dress all shiny!
- December 16, 2008 at 3:47 AM
- Cindy Haffner said...
Sweet, sweet, love all the layers, and details.
- December 16, 2008 at 6:48 AM
- Lisa Olson said...
Hi Maria, I just love Pam and Buster, your cards always look so professionally finished. I loved the video too and yes the song is really pretty although I don't speak a word of the language. LOL!!!
Thanks for poping over to my blog and your lovely comments and yes that is my beautiful 16 year old son.
- December 16, 2008 at 8:37 AM


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Jake and I leave for Vegas tomorrow.
Our itinerary is set, bags are packed, and we made two rehearsal pizzas tonight to test our final product that we'll be entering in the competition. They were fantastic!
Our schedule is very full: Monday is jam-packed until the late evening, Tuesday is chock full of workshops and walking the Expo floor, and Wednesday is our competition day. We'll be up verrrrry early in the morning to do prep, and are scheduled to present to the judges at 11:55 am. We'll know how we do later that evening when they post the scores after 6 o'clock.
If When we make the top of the list, we'll advance to Thursday's competition and cook again for top placement for another cash prize.
We'll fly home on Friday, hopefully with big smiles in tow.
Think good thoughts, cross your fingers and toes, and stay tuned!


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Fists came dangerously close to flying on pit row after Sunday's Sprint Cup race at Martinsville.
Greg Biffle had been bumped from behind by Jimmie Johnson earlier in the race, forcing him to stop for repairs, and he confronted his fellow driver about the maneuver during Johnson's postrace interview.
USA Today has the full breakdown of the altercation:
"Hey, you [expletive] ripped off my rear bumper, you [expletive]," Biffle said, enraged. "You [expletive] ran into the back of me!"
Johnson protested and said he had position on Biffle, who pointed his finger at the five-time champion and told him to "watch it."
Biffle, who finished ninth, started to walk away as a NASCAR official got between them, but Johnson grabbed his arm. "If you want to talk about it, we can talk about it," he said.
"We just did," Biffle said. "[Expletive], man! I had to go all the way to the back."
Johnson, who acknowledged making contact with Biffle's car but insisted it was not intentional, placed his hand of Biffle's chest, and the two were separated before the incident escalated any further.
"We made contact, but I couldn't understand why he was down here pulling on my collar like he just did," Johnson said. "We'll get it sorted out."
See an angry Biffle grab Johnson by the neck in the video below.


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To make a click & collect order, simply complete your shop on mySupermarket but without booking a delivery slot.
Once you have transferred your basket to the website of the desired retailer, you can add the delivery options directly there, this is where the click and collect option will be available!
To learn which retailers offer click & collect delivery options, you can contact them directly here.


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Venue: The Hub, Cambourne Community Centre, High Street, Cambourne, CB23 6GW
2 Apr – 5 Apr (Monday -Thursday), 6-9pm
Wee Kee Jin will be leading a workshop over 4 evenings on the practice and application of Tai Chi. This workshop will be of interest to students of Tai Chi at all levels and an ideal introduction for beginners wishing to explore Tai Chi for the first time. It will also be of interest to those training in other styles of martial arts.
Wee Kee Jin is the principal instructor at the Taijiquan School of Central Equilibrium based in Auckland New Zealand. He is internationally recognized as a senior instructor of the Huang Sheng-Shyan system and is in ongoing demand by schools and associations in Europe, New Zealand and Brisbane Australia. Wee Kee Jin has dedicated himself to Tai Chi, with professionally teaching in Singapore, where he was born, and in New Zealand where he immigrated in 1991. Wee Kee Jin gives workshops in England, Holland, Germany, Austria, Norway and Denmark, plus every few months he crosses the Tasman to Brisbane, Australia. Over the southern hemisphere summer months, he hosts visiting students from Europe, America and Australia, providing them with residential training including personalized tuition, and access to his schools' classes. The distance hasn't deterred many from returning regularly. This is probably not just a reflection of Wee Kee Jin's depth in understanding Tai Chi Chuan, but also his open and accessible teaching style.
Cost: £160 if booking the whole workshop.
Otherwise £45 per evening. Priority will be given to people booking the whole workshop.
NB. Those intending to book part of the workshop must contact Dmitry prior to sending payment.


text: Extend Your Life Ray Kurzweil Article posted on May 28, 2007 Did you happen to read the Ray Kurzweil article in the May issue of Fortune Magazine? If not, it™s 8 pages of inspirational reading. Go to: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/05/14/100008848/ Ray is one of the world™s leading visionaries. Through his discovery of the Law of Accelerating Returns…Read more


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In December 2016 and January 2017, the West Virginia Board of Education approved more than $695,000 in Innovation in Education grant funding for five Kanawha County schools. Forty-three schools across the state applied for the funds, 14 have been awarded funding and five of those, or 35%, have been in Kanawha County. The funds were made available through the passage of HB 4295 during the 2016 legislative session. The following Kanawha County School projects were funded:
Amount funded
Brief project description
Dunbar Intermediate School
Inquiry based learning
Dunbar Intermediate's vision is to be the school where design and social research drive approaches to studying issues of our time, such as democracy, urbanization, technological change economic empowerment, sustainability, migration, and globalization.
Mary Ingles Elementary
Makerspace/PBL project
Mary Ingles Elementary plans to help break the cycle of poverty in the eastern Kanawha County region by facilitating evening classes and open internet time with potential certifications for adults. With the grant funds, they will also create a Makerspace classroom, become a fully engaged Project-Based (PBL) school, and provide extended learning opportunities outside the school setting for students.
George Washington High School
Intro to STEM course
Modifications to the current library will transform the space into a multi-media collaboration and fabrication space; learning hubs will provide private space for small group work. Technology will be a key component in ensuring the successful transition to a model STEM school.
Grandview Elementary
Community garden
Project will be completed with help from local farmers, gardeners, and dietitians to provide fresh food and promote healthy eating projects. Collaborating with local experts like foresters and recreation specialists to develop a community wellness trail will assist physical and mental health. Cultivating community connections and adjusting instructional time to assist in achieving an effective Community School Partnership are also in the plan.
Richmond Elementary
City Planning 2040
The project will identify, compare, classify and explain our living and designed worlds that make up their city. They will use multiple technology tools and use the engineering design process to create their buildings from beginning to end.
"I'm proud of our school leaders for putting together so many quality proposals and I'm thrilled that the review committee funded many of our projects," said Dr. Duerring, superintendent, Kanawha County Schools. "These five projects will make a difference in the lives of students, teachers, staff and these respective communities. I look forward to seeing the funds distributed and put to good use quickly."
Full descriptions of school projects can be found here (December) and here (January).
Background on Innovation in Education grants from the WV Department of Education:
Through an application process, public schools sought to redesign delivery of instruction, operate under greater flexibility and enhance student engagement to increase educational achievement for a school that demonstrates innovation in education in any of the following priority areas: 1) science, technology, engineering and math (STEM); 2) community-school partnership; 3) entrepreneurship; 4) career pathways; and 5) the arts.
Applications were received from 43 West Virginia elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and career technical education centers. Schools' applications were independently assessed by a selection committee comprised of representatives from the WVBE, the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), the West Virginia Governor's Office and Marshall University along with county representatives, curriculum facilitators, educators and administrators. The selection committee assessed the schools based on established evaluation rubrics and submitted seven schools for WVBE approval in December. An additional seven schools were submitted for WVBE approval in January.
A total of $2.496 million in Innovation in Education funding has been distributed.


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Whew #1: My oldest daughter came home from her last classes at community college this week, expressing a mixture of relief and excitement that she finished her Associates Degree. Her sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from having completed this has given her a great zeal for jumping into her major at the 4-year university shes transferring to in the fall. Shell soon be dealing with a new life away from home and facing additional challenges, but for now she plans on relishing the time off, and sleeping in.
Whew #2: My next oldest daughter took her SAT on the same day the other one graduated, and will be attending community college full time in the fall. Weve had our rough patches along the high school path, (difficulties with math, and some time management issues), but overall, I am pleased with the outcome. Having taken dual enrollment courses over the past year, my daughter feels confident and ready to move on. We still have to update her transcript and take care of admissions and registration later this summer, but for now, I am relishing the fact that
Whew #3: I will have a break from homeschooling high school for a couple of years. Yah, I still have two more to go, (they will be in 7th and 4th grades this fall), but I wont be dealing with transcripts, course descriptions, and specific requirements for a while.
At times I have felt a bit bogged down by the oversight and management aspects of homeschooling, not having much time for the fun and flexibility. With some time off from the higher grades, Im hoping to get involved with some more local homeschool co-ops and groups (in addition to our Swim & Gym program at the YMCA, and science classes at the local science/art museum). We are finishing up some math and grammar, and well do our standardized tests in a couple of weeks (mandatory here in NC) -- and thats it. Summertime, and a much-anticipated hiatus.
Wishing you all a great summer.
-And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. - Gal. 6:9
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A new report makes the case that greater purchasing power could go a long way toward alleviating hunger in the U.S.
For American families earning less than $40,000 per year, consistent access to food is far from a given. Food is a necessary expense, of course, but compared to housing and utilities, it's a flexible one. On average, food comprises between 13.7 and 15.3 percent of a family's annual expenditures in the U.S. But when budgets tighten for low-income families, hunger often follows. Around 17.4 million American families report inadequate resources to provide enough food to keep all members healthy and active. Rates of food insecurity skyrocketed during the Great Recession, and the economy's slow climb back toward health has barely alleviated this concern.
While 15 domestic food and nutrition assistance programs currently exist to aid food-insecure families, a new report from The Century Foundation proposes a stronger foundation for that safety net: raising the federal minimum wage to $15.
For the past seven years, the federal minimum wage has held constant at $7.25 per hour. Following the model proposed earlier this year by David Norcross, a congressman from New Jersey, William Rodgers, the author of The Century Foundation report, examines the effects of incrementally increasing the minimum wage to $15 by 2023.
Rodgers's analysis found that with the wage increase, approximately 1.2 million households could achieve food security between now and 2023. Those headed by single parents, minorities, and people with no more than a high-school degree—who make up the bulk of minimum-wage workers—would comprise the largest share of the 6.5 percent reduction in food-insecure households. As shown in the map below, the effects of the minimum-wage hike would be felt across all states.
To arrive at this conclusion, Rodgers pooled Current Population Survey Food Security supplement (CPS-FSS) data from 1995 to 2014 on two categories of states: those where the minimum wage matched the federal floor, and those where the minimum wage was just slightly above the federal figure—around $7.50 per hour. The states' demographic profiles were very similar: the share of women and minorities was the same, as was the breakdown of educational attainment. The only substantial difference, Rodgers says, was the minimum wage policy—and those states where the minimum wage even just slightly exceeded the federal floor reported higher food security.
"The reasonable conclusion is that if the economy is the same and the worker characteristics are the same, higher food security is due to the additional purchasing power that these families have," Rodgers says.
Rodgers's predictive model for future wage increases reflects a similar trend. The CPS-FSS ascertains households' food insecurity through a series of questions that ask residents to respond to statements like whether they "worried food would run out before we got the money to buy more." The chart below shows the effects of a 10 percent increase in the minimum wage. Under these conditions, a household's odds of never running out of food before earning more money go up by 0.773 of a percentage point.
According to the report, "the minimum wage increases can greatly reduce the plight of families who remain food insecure despite working significant hours." Rodgers's model indicates that even slight increases in purchasing power reduce the burden on families sometimes forced to make trade-offs between food expenditures and other necessities.
Moving these families from food-insecure to food-secure, the report added, will allow for a more efficient deployment of national food-assistance programs. Those could help meet the needs of food-insecure families working fewer hours, who would be "less likely to benefit from a minimum wage increase," the authors wrote.
The $15 minimum wage is a hotly debated concept; a handful of states like New York and California have already enacted legislation in favor of it, and Arizona, Colorado, Maine, and Washington will vote on similar bills this November, The Atlantic reports.
In a sense, Rodgers says, the report is stepping into "uncharted waters" by re-examining a federal minimum wage untouched since 2009. But for the households that stand to benefit, he adds, "there's an obvious payoff."


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Use this program's structured format to design writing activities for students by guiding them through planning, organizing and preparing a first draft. Both graphic and outline formats assist in the writing process. Writing genre templates available.
OnScreen is an on-screen keyboard that allows the user to enter text into any application. OnScreen includes WordComplete, a word completion program that may help students speed up their typing. WordComplete is also available separately.
WordTalk is a free plug-in developed for use with all versions of Microsoft Word (from Word 97 upwards), which may help people with reading and writing difficulties use Microsoft Word more effectively. It will speak the text of the document and will highlight it as it goes. It contains a talking dictionary to help decide which word spelling is most appropriate. It sits in a user's toolbar and is configurable, allowing users to adjust the highlight colors, the voice and the rate of speed of the speech.
WriteOnline is an online word processing application for students. Users log on to the WriteOnline website, and can access word prediction features, text-to-speech, and other writing tools from any computer. Each student gets his or her personal online folders as part of the WriteOnline subscription, and they can save documents either online or to their own computer. Students' user preferences are automatically stored for them online, so the program starts up as they want it every time, on any computer.
Use this web-based word processor to support writing planning and organization, transcription legibility and editing and revising. Planning is supported with outline templates containing content and procedure prompts or an outlining tool. Drafts can be auto-created from the outline. Editing and revising is supported with a spell check tool and a text-to-speech option. Being web-based, this program can be accessed from any computer having Internet access. Options for electronic peer review and feedback of written work are provided.
Co:Writer works in conjunction with any application you write in (MS Word, Online, Blogs, Email, etc.) As you type, Co:Writer interprets spelling and grammar mistakes and offers word suggestions in real time. New features include a word bank, personal dictionaries and text-to-speech capabilities that work in any application including: MS Word, Google Docs, Open Office, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and Firefox.
In addition to providing a number of reading comprehension, study tools, and text-to-digital conversion tools, this program supports writing through tools for transcription, editing and revising. Transcription is supported with a word prediction tool. Editing and revising are supported with a spell check tool and text-to-speech review of drafts. Word fluency is supported with an e-dictionary and thesaurus.
Write:OutLoud reads words as they are written, providing real-time auditory feedback. Writing tools, including Franklin's Talking Spell Checker, homophone checker, and dictionary help your students confirm their word choice in language they understand.
The Medialexie Scribe 2012 is a unique software designed to support individuals in reading and written language activities. With text-to-speech, speech-to-text, word prediction, note-taking, and phonetic transcription tools, the Medialexie Scribe 2012 allows students to access and use core content independently.
Kurzweil 3000™ is a comprehensive reading, writing and learning software solution for any struggling reader, including individuals with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder or those who are English Language Learners (ELL). Kurzweil 3000, is research based and enables struggling readers in grades 3 and above to learn from the same content as their peers as it provides access to virtually any text or curriculum, including print, electronic, and Web-based documents.


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- This event has passed.
Story Rhythms for Babies & Toddlers
February 12, 2019 @ 10:30 am - 11:00 am EST
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every week that begins at 10:30 am on Tuesday, repeating until February 26, 2019
A special time filled with songs, stories, and movement for children 4-36 months.
Meet upstairs in the Rotary Room. Come early and play!


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15-08-2018 12:09
Time: 11am (local time)
At 8:05pm on Tuesday, 14 August 2018, an unknown armed person opened fire at and killed Nadi Hadayed, 26. The shooting took place near the Bani Suhaila roundabout in Khan Younis. Hadayed was hit with multiple bullets in the chest and the head.
Ambulances and police arrived at the location of the incident and police announced that an investigation into the incident would be opened. According to a statement by the police, the murder was likely an 'act of revenge'.
Hadayed had been injured by Israeli forces while participating in demonstrations in Gaza, and was on crutches at the time he was killed.
Al Mezan's documentation shows that from the start of 2018, 17 persons, of them three children, have been killed and 38, including six children and two women, injured in family feuds and other revenge related incidents in the Gaza Strip. This trend, of increased violence, reflects a worrying breakdown in the rule of law, in particular of citizens taking the law into their own hands in disregard of the justice system.
Al Mezan stresses its condemnation of killings committed in family feuds and expresses its condolences to the family of Hadayed, the latest victim of an ongoing series of serious, unlawful acts of violence. Al Mezan warns against the rising number deaths caused by such acts and urges the competent authorities to take measures to protect lives and to promote security and public order in accordance with law and human rights standards.
Al Mezan calls for:
Investigations to be launched into all cases of internal violence, including the abuse of firearms;
Imposing effective gun control measures; and
Restricting the possession and use of firearms exclusively to law enforcement personnel.


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9700 Touchton Road Suite 103
Jacksonville FL, 32246
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Image Source ~ https://www.whatsuplife.in
Not that we are not celebrating always, but 8th March is International Women's Day, which gives us another chance to celebrate. We here are always looking for more reasons to do that with much pomp and fervour! Women's Day is not only about acknowledging yourself but also about honouring those women in your life who have been rock solid and like a wall. So what do we usually do on this day? Some of us resort to shopping or go for brunches with our besties, or just enjoy some quiet lone time reading a book or at a spa.
But, this time around since we at Pipa Bella are all about cocktails we thought that chugging down a few extra ones on this day won't do any harm. Or maybe we just like to believe that! 😀
So here's a list of 5 cocktails that the girls can drink while they catch up with their besties and the guys can make for their lady loves 🙂
Image Source ~ https://in.pinterest.com
Topping the list is Cosmopolitan because didn't the SATC girls teach us that no matter what life throws at you, meet your girlfriends and gulp down these sensational cocktails? Made with vodka, cointreau, cranberry and lime juice, this one is easy to shake up and garnish with orange zest. No matter what but this one is sure to lift your spirits instantly!
Image Source ~ http://www.townandcountrymag.com
Island Breeze
Rum lovers rejoice! This one along with its pretty peach colour gives you a fruity zing while offering equal punches of rum. This tasty tropical drink can give you a break from your regular rum and cola routines and has the potential of becoming your next favourite. Created with pineapple juice, rum, cranberry juice and angostura bitters, this cocktail is Instagram worthy.
Image Source ~ http://www.gazregan.com
A delish rendition for the gin and tonic regulars, the Martinez is a glorious drink that you will definitely love. Prepared using gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liquer, bitters and a slice of lemon, this drink will be highly acclaimed by the ones who enjoy sweet cocktails. You might feel like you're drifting away in mid-air, that's just an added feature of this drink.
Image Source ~ https://www.garnishwithlemon.com
This refreshing drink is something that you definitely can't give a miss. The bright yellow drink is achieved by mixing champagne, orange juice and triple sec, garnished with a slice of orange and mint leaves. Arrive in pretty French dresses and drink this vibrant cocktail if you plan to meet your girls for brunch.
Image Source ~ https://kitchenstories.io
Long Island Iced Tea
This drink needs no introduction and may already be a favourite of yours. Made with vodka, gin, tequila, rum and triple sec garnished with a wedge of lime and mint leaves, this drink is sure to set you soaring by the time you finish it. Perfect to achieve a good buzz for a dinner date with your girlfriends!
While you zero down on your drinks you can also show up wearing baubles that match your drinks. Apart from looking good the whole affair looks absolutely Instagram worthy.
As for baubles, get them here: http://www.pipabella.com/


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There are so very many ways to come up with characters. Some simply pop into your mind with the plot others appear with their back stories, and still others come quite easily as you start to write.
But other times to have your main character, your plot, and your side kick… but where is the rest of the crew, and what on earth do these people look like?
**As a warning, this post is filled to the brim with cringe worthy sketches and doodles, some of which are three years or older… enter at your own risk and my apologies for any injuries
Sketching to Find Your Characters
In 2014 when I was brainstorming for Sparrow Singing, then called The Sparrow Who Couldn't Sing, I had a main plot idea, my MC Lyric, and her best friend. But I knew there needed to be a bunch of other people,as it takes place largely in a school. NaNo was fast approaching and here I was without any characters.
So I started sketching. A not very good sketch, sure, but I tried to make the people look different n'stuff, and as I sketched, I got personalities. I searched names, back stories and things started to come together.
(if you want to see the cringe pic:
These then became my "main" girls, who I focused on throughout the book. Top to bottom, left to right, we have Ember, Calandra, Sidonia, Idella, Alice and of course, Lyric.
This further transferred into closer studies on what these girls looked like:
Before I drew out that group of girls, I had little to work with. After, I had a bunch of faces and people to discover. Sketching out a crew helped me to find these people and integrate them into my story.
Another example of sketching to find your crew is this one:
I just got my first pack of prismacolors this summer so I was trying to experiment… but since this is was in the summer, I had NaNo on the brain. So they all turned into silhouettes of characters in Book Three. I was able to gather sub-plots and personalities and all those goodies as I doodled.
Sketching to Learn More About Your Characters:
Another plus for sketching to find characters is you can also sketch out characters you already sort of know. (That's a bit obvious but oh well.) I knew who my character for Truth Remaining, the second book in my series, would be. Her name? Thea. ENTJ. A leader. But it really helped to draw her out and visualize her before I spent 30 days writing her.
Sketching Thea out also helped me to learn more about my story world. Since this is dystopian and the majority of the people in my world are all laborers, they have simple clothing and short cut hair to keep things simple in clean up.
Without going into of detail, Ember goes through a lot of junk in her book. It helped for me to sketch her out in those various life phases… and get scene ideas… also, Calandra, because Calandra plays a larger role in book three.
Sketching and drawing might now be for everyone, but you should consider giving it a try! You never know, it might strike your fancy 😀
Have you ever drawn your characters? What do you usually use to figure out your cast of characters?
bonus cringe pictures of sparrow and shrew because you survived reading this post:


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BUCKEYE LAKE – Monday night it appeared as if Buckeye Lake Village may lose the LEADS food pantry on West 1st Street, but by Tuesday the situation was resolved. The food pantry will remain where it is for at least the next five years.
Initially LEADS proposed a 10-year lease at $1 per year in exchange for connecting the building to the village's water distribution system. LEADS would continue to maintain the building.
Village officials asked LEADS Director Ken Kempton if LEADS would consider paying $500 per month for the building if the village would install the water line.
Kempton told Buckeye Lake Mayor Clay Carroll that after consulting with his colleagues, that arrangement was unacceptable and LEADS would look for an alternative location for the food pantry as quickly as possible.
Council member Peggy Wells said moving the food pantry was "a nasty way to respond" to a reasonable request. She added that she had spoken directly with Kempton about the village's dire financial situation, explaining that layoffs were possible among other cuts. "He seemed very sympathetic to our financial situation and was willing to work with us," Wells added.
But, Tuesday Carroll met with Kempton and agreed upon terms that will keep the food pantry on West 1st Street.
"The Buckeye Lake Food Pantry will sign a five-year lease for $1 per year to rent the facility from the Village of Buckeye Lake," said Kempton. He said LEADS would be responsible for the repair and maintenance of the building during the term of the lease and for the installation of the water line.
"We thank Mayor Carroll and Village Council for their willingness to continue to work with LEADS to find a way that enables the food pantry to remain in Buckeye Lake at the present location," said Kempton. "Their efforts are greatly appreciated!"
Monday night Council Clerk Valerie Hans said if the village began charging significant rent for the food pantry building, it would be required to pay property taxes on it. Currently, the building is tax exempt because it is not earning the village a profit.
Several residents balked at the idea of doing anything that would jeopardize the food pantry in any way.
"It's absolutely imperative that we have the LEADS program for our citizens," said resident Kitty Zwissler. "You need to do everything in your power to keep them here. This could be a horrible public relations event."
Parks and Recreation Commission Chair Marianne Perine said the community must have the food pantry, particularly for children's sake.
"Personally, I can't see why this was even brought up," said resident Ethel Braden. "It's our privilege to have (the food pantry) here."
Village officials were clear that they valued the food pantry as well.
"We have so many people relying on (the food pantry)," said Carroll.
"This community needs it," said council member Barry Herron.
"I'd hate to lose the food pantry. A lot of people would be hungry," said council member Mickey McCormick. She said losing the pantry would reflect poorly on the village, which desperately needs the LEADS food pantry's services, as well as the food pantry at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.
In other village news:
• Carroll said patching would begin this week on Hunts Landing Road, which is in major disrepair. The patching is a bit of a "band-aid" fix, because a longterm repair would cost roughly $238,000, which is currently not in the village's budget. Carroll said the village would try to secure some grant money toward a longterm repair.
The repair work on Hunts Landing Road will be similar to repairs made to Cranberry Lane.
"Cranberry Lane residents appreciate the work that was done to the road," said Wells. However, the new repairs are already beginning to crumble.
"It's a temporary patch. You can only do so much," said Hans.
Water Supervisor Toby Miller explained that the weather isn't warm enough yet to make longterm repairs to any village street.


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- Home
- Stamps
- Aland Islands
- 2018
Shipping: GBP £3.70 Worldwide shipping fee.
Europa 2018 - Set
Europa 2018 - Set for only GBP £1.67
About Europa 2018
Åland Posts contribution to the 2018 Europa stamp series features the Bomarsund Bridge. Connecting the main island with the island of Prästö, this arch bridge is located in Sund near the ruins of the Bomarsund fortress. Built in 1958, the bridge is 61 metres long and constructed in concrete.


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Property Owners Are Responsible For Injuries From Dangerous Conditions
Under the law, property owners have a duty to the safety of patrons, tenants and visitors. However, an injured person must prove that the owner could or should have prevented the accident or injury. Without an experienced attorney, you might get only partial compensation — or no compensation at all.
The personal injury attorneys of KG have been successful in premises liability cases in Cuyahoga County and statewide Ohio, as well as Illinois. We take action to establish the negligence of the owner and the full monetary damages you deserve.
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BERLIN — AT various points during shows, the German rapper Kutlu Yurtseven gestures to a bandmate sitting demurely off to the side. That's the cue for 89-year-old Esther Bejarano, a diminutive woman with a snow-white pixie cut, to jump in with a song. "When will the heavens open up, again, for me?" is one favorite, the refrain of a local carnival tune. "When will they open up?"
It is an unusual pairing. Ms. Bejarano is one of the last surviving members of the Auschwitz Girls' Orchestra, the only all-female ensemble among the many Nazi-run prisoner musical groups in the camp system. Among other duties, the Girls' Orchestra was responsible for playing the marches that imprisoned women had to keep step to as they went out to work in the morning and, even more cruelly, as they returned, half-dead, at the end of the day.
Five years ago, hoping to reach more young people with her story and her message of tolerance and anti-fascism, Ms. Bejarano teamed up with Microphone Mafia, a German hip-hop duo with Turkish and Italian roots. They have released their first album, and have been playing concerts throughout Germany and Europe ever since.
The music combines songs like the poignant Yiddish resistance song, "We'll Live Forever," composed in the Nazi-run Jewish ghetto in Vilna just before it was liquidated, with rap passages about current problems like racism that, in Ms. Bejarano's view, show that the lessons of the Holocaust still need to be learned.
Performances always begin with Ms. Bejarano reading aloud from her autobiography, which tells the story of a life shaped by two forces: the Nazis and music.
Ms. Bejarano was born Esther Loewy in Saarlouis, in what is now southwestern Germany, in 1924. Her parents had met in Berlin as teenagers, when her father was hired as a piano teacher for her mother, and the two fell in love. "I picture it as having been very lovely," Ms. Bejarano said with a smile.
Hitler's rise to power put an end to what Ms. Bejarano described as "a lighthearted childhood." By the time she was 16, she was separated from her family and interned in a Nazi work camp outside Berlin. Her parents, she learned later, were deported the same year to Riga, Latvia, where they were shot.
In 1943, she was deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Her hair was cut off, and she was tattooed and forced to do backbreaking labor. For extra food, she sometimes sang songs by Schubert, Bach or Mozart for barracks leaders.
The Nazis regarded camp orchestras as status symbols, and, within a month of Ms. Bejarano's arrival in Auschwitz, Maria Mandl, the SS commander in charge of the women's camp, decided that she, too, wanted one.
When approached, Ms. Bejarano said she could play the piano. There was no piano, she was told, but they needed an accordion player. "I had never held an accordion in my hands, before," Ms. Bejarano said. "But I said I could play one."
It worked, and she was accepted into the orchestra. "To this day I can't believe that I did it."
In addition to entertaining SS officers with popular ditties or classical selections, the Girls' Orchestra also had to play for new detainees arriving for the gas chambers. Often, people smiled and waved at the musicians. "They must have thought, 'Where music is playing, things can't be that bad,' " Ms. Bejarano said. "They didn't know where they were going. But we knew. We played with tears in our eyes."
BECAUSE fewer female than male prisoners could play musical instruments, members of the orchestra received somewhat better treatment than their male counterparts, and Ms. Bejarano was able to survive two serious illnesses.
After six months in Auschwitz, new regulations allowed her to transfer to a labor camp because she had a Christian grandmother. During a forced march in the last days of the war, she and several friends hid in the woods and escaped. After a few harrowing months traveling Germany on foot, dodging Russian soldiers and searching for her family, she acquired false papers and boarded a ship headed to what was then British Palestine. There, she reunited with her sister, Tosca.
While some who played in the camps and survived never touched an instrument again, for Ms. Bejarano, there was never any question: As soon as she left Germany, she began training as a singer. "Some people say, after Auschwitz, you can't write any more poems, there can't be music, beautiful pictures," she said. "I think that's completely wrong. We have to express to people what happened to us."
For many years, though, Ms. Bejarano was unable to talk about her time in the camps. In Israel, where she settled, she sang in an award-winning workers' choir, and gave hundreds of concerts as a soldier in the army. She met and married Nissim Bejarano, a truck driver whose family had immigrated from Bulgaria. They had two children. She taught local children to play the recorder.
But, in 1960, after much soul searching, the Bejarano family left for Germany: Her husband had fought during the 1956 Suez crisis and was morally opposed to further armed conflict with Israel's neighbors. Settled in Hamburg, Ms. Bejarano had no time for music. She cared for her small children and later, with her husband, ran a laundry service.
It was not until the 1970s that she decided to break her silence, after witnessing the German police shield right-wing extremists against protesters. "The next day, I joined the Association of the Persecutees of the Nazi Regime," she said. There, other members encouraged her to tell her story, and to return to music.
SHE spoke at schools. She joined two bands, singing Jewish resistance and antiwar songs with her children. She delivered protest speeches at neo-Nazi marches. A recurring nightmare of being trampled by Nazi soldiers' boots finally ceased. "I freed myself, inwardly," she said.
Rap is still not her favorite genre, but Ms. Bejarano likes her bandmates' lyrics and is glad for the chance to reach a younger audience. Last year, for example, she spoke out against the tragedy near Lampedusa, an island off the coast of Italy where hundreds of African migrants fleeing war and poverty drowned en route to Europe.
"You have to help people like this," she said. "I know it from my sister Ruth. She made it to Switzerland, but the border guards turned her back. The Germans shot her."
The plight of modern-day refugees is just one of many problems that keeps Ms. Bejarano singing — in Yiddish, Hebrew, German, English, French and Romany, the language of the Roma, or Gypsies. "I use music to act against fascism," she said. "Music is everything for me."
Christa Spannbauer, a filmmaker and journalist, said that the musicians' work makes it easier for young people to engage with the past constructively. "If you just see the documentaries, you lose hope," said Ms. Spannbauer, whose own father was in the Waffen-SS as a teenager. "But when you see the courage of the people who survived, it gives you hope in humanity and strength to act. The kids see her and say, 'O.K., we want to do something.' "
Last year, Ms. Bejarano added the Order of Merit, one of Germany's most important medals, to the many honors she has received. Soon, she and the band will head to Istanbul. "I am always on the road," she said, shaking her head.
For Mr. Yurtseven of the Microphone Mafia, every concert with Ms. Bejarano is an inspiration. "Sometimes I'm kind of tired," he said. "Then I look at Esther, and think, 'O.K., don't tell yourself you're tired. She's 89 and still fighting for a better world.' "