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Self-Regulatory Organizations; National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change and Amendment No. 1 Thereto Relating to a Certificate of Designation for Preferred Stock of The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc., 77433-77435 [E5-8128]Download as PDF
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 250 (Friday, December 30, 2005)] [Notices] [Pages 77433-77435] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: E5-8128] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34-53022; File No. SR-NASD-2005-145] Self-Regulatory Organizations; National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change and Amendment No. 1 Thereto Relating to a Certificate of Designation for Preferred Stock of The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. December 23, 2005. Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act'') \1\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 8, 2005, the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (``NASD''), through its subsidiary, The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. (``Nasdaq'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by Nasdaq. Nasdaq filed Amendment No. 1 to the proposed rule change on December 21, 2005.\3\ Nasdaq has designated this proposal as a ``non-controversial'' proposed rule change pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A)(iii) of the Act \4\ and Rule 19b-4(f)(6) thereunder,\5\ which renders the proposal effective upon filing with the Commission. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change, as amended, from interested persons. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). \2\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4. \3\ In Amendment No. 1, Nasdaq modified the basis for summary effectiveness of the filing from Rule 19b-4(f)(3) under the Act to Rule 19b-4(f)(6), which pertains to non-controversial rule changes. \4\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A)(iii). \5\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(f)(6). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 77434]] I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change Nasdaq proposes to adopt a Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights (a ``Certificate of Designation'') of Series D Preferred Stock (``Series D Preferred''). Nasdaq will implement the proposed rule change as soon as practicable.\6\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \6\ The Commission notes that on December 14, 2005, Nasdaq filed a certificate of designation for the Series D Preferred with the Secretary of the State of Delaware. On December 20, 2005, Nasdaq and NASD entered into an exchange agreement pursuant to which NASD exchanged one share of Nasdaq's Series B Preferred Stock for one newly issued Series D Preferred. See Nasdaq's Form 8-K, dated December 20, 2005. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The text of the proposed rule change is available on Nasdaq's Internet Web site (http://www.nasdaq.com), at NASD's principal office, and at the Commission's Public Reference Room. II. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change In its filing with the Commission, Nasdaq included statements concerning the purpose of, and basis for, the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. Nasdaq has prepared summaries, set forth in Sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of such statements. A. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose Nasdaq is filing the Certificate of Designation described below. Under Article Fourth of Nasdaq's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, Nasdaq's Board of Directors may authorize the issuance of preferred stock and fix its designation, powers, preferences and rights, as well as any qualifications, limitations, and restrictions upon it. Under Delaware law, the Certificate of Designation is deemed to be an amendment to Nasdaq's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, and as such, Nasdaq is filing the Certificate of Designation with the Commission. In 2002, Nasdaq fixed the designation, powers, preferences, and rights for its Series B Preferred Stock (``Series B Preferred'') and issued a single share of the Series B Preferred to its parent corporation, the NASD.\7\ The Series B Preferred holder votes, together as one class with Nasdaq's common stock, on all matters submitted to a vote of holders of common stock. The Series B Preferred has variable voting rights such that the number of votes entitled to be cast by the holder of the Series B Preferred equals that number of votes that, together with votes otherwise entitled to be cast by the holder of the Series B Preferred Stock at a meeting, whether by virtue of share ownership, proxies, voting trust arrangements or otherwise, entitle the holder to exercise one vote more than one-half of all votes entitled to be cast. Thus, by virtue of its ownership of the Series B share, NASD controls Nasdaq, and would continue to control Nasdaq without regard to its level of ownership of Nasdaq common stock. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \7\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 45638 (March 25, 2002), 67 FR 15268 (March 29, 2002). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nasdaq currently derives its regulatory authority from NASD's registration as a national securities association. Nasdaq exercises its authority by virtue of a delegation from the NASD under the terms of the Commission-approved Plan of Allocation and Delegation of Functions by NASD to Subsidiaries (the ``Delegation Plan''), but the Series B Preferred provides a means by which the NASD may assure that Nasdaq operates in accordance with the Delegation Plan. The Series B Preferred provides, however, that it loses its voting rights and will be redeemed by Nasdaq upon Nasdaq ``becoming registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as a national securities exchange,'' because Nasdaq would no longer be required to operate under the Delegation Plan if it was authorized by the Commission to operate as an exchange. In 2000 and 2001, Nasdaq filed an application to register as a national securities exchange. Earlier this year, Nasdaq filed substantial amendments to its exchange registration application, under which Nasdaq would become a holding company and a newly formed subsidiary, The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (``NASDAQ LLC''), would become registered as a national securities exchange. Nasdaq is optimistic that its amended exchange registration application will be approved in the near future. However, it is likely that NASDAQ LLC would not operate as an exchange until some date after the issuance of an order approving its exchange registration application. Accordingly, in the event of the issuance of such an approval order, it is likely that Nasdaq would still need to continue to operate pursuant to the Delegation Plan until such time as NASDAQ LLC begins to operate as an exchange (the ``Operational Date''). During this transitional period, NASD would need to continue to exercise control with respect to Nasdaq. The terms of the Series B Preferred, however, are not well suited to possible scenarios under which exchange registration may be implemented, such as in this case, exchange registration would occur in advance of the Operational Date, and NASDAQ LLC, rather than Nasdaq, would be the entity registered as an exchange.\8\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \8\ Earlier this year, Nasdaq stockholders approved an amendment to the Series B Preferred that would result in the termination of voting rights upon the registration of Nasdaq or a subsidiary thereof as an exchange. The amendment, however, did not address ambiguity occasioned by a delay in time between the approval of Nasdaq's exchange registration and the Operational Date. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accordingly, Nasdaq proposes to adopt the Certificate of Designation and issue one share of Series D Preferred to the NASD in exchange for the cancellation of the outstanding share of Series B Preferred. The terms and conditions of the Series D Preferred are identical in all respects to those of the Series B Preferred, except that the triggering event for a loss of voting rights and redemption of the Series D Preferred would be ``the first date on which [Nasdaq] and all subsidiaries thereof are no longer operating in any respect pursuant to authority delegated by'' NASD under the Delegation Plan. Thus, if exchange registration is granted to NASDAQ LLC, the Series D Preferred would lose its voting rights on the Operational Date.\9\ NASD has also filed a proposal that would remove Nasdaq from the Delegation Plan,\10\ and Nasdaq expects that if the proposal is approved by the Commission, it will be implemented on the Operational Date. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \9\ In the unlikely event that there is a transitional period during which NASDAQ LLC operates as an exchange for certain stocks while Nasdaq continues to operate as a facility of the NASD for other stocks, the Series D Preferred would remain until Nasdaq had ceased to operate in that capacity. \10\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 52049 (July 15, 2005), 70 FR 42398 (July 22, 2005). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Statutory Basis Nasdaq believes that the proposed rule change is consistent with the provisions of section 15A of the Act,\11\ in general, and with sections 15A(b)(2) and (b)(6) of the Act,\12\ in particular, which require, among other things, that the NASD be so organized and have the capacity to be able to carry out the purposes of the Act and to comply with and enforce compliance with the provisions of the Act, and the NASD's rules are designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of [[Page 77435]] trade, and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest. The issuance of the Series D Preferred will ensure that NASD continues to control Nasdaq until NASDAQ LLC operates as an exchange and Nasdaq is no longer operating pursuant to the Delegation Plan. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \11\ 15 U.S.C. 78o-3. \12\ 15 U.S.C. 78o-3(b)(2) and (b)(6). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- B. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition Nasdaq does not believe that the proposed rule change will result in any burden on competition that is not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act, as amended. C. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants or Others Written comments were neither solicited nor received. III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action The Exchange has designated the proposed rule change, as amended, as a ``non-controversial'' rule change pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A)(iii) of the Act \13\ and subparagraph (f)(6) of Rule 19b-4 thereunder.\14\ Nasdaq represents that the foregoing rule change: does not (i) significantly affect the protection of investors or the public interest; (ii) impose any significant burden on competition; and (iii) by its terms, does not become operative for 30-days after the date of this filing, or such shorter time as the Commission may designate if consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest. Nasdaq has requested that the Commission waive the five-day pre-filing requirement and the 30-day operative delay period for ``non- controversial'' proposals and make the proposed rule change, as amended, effective and operative upon filing. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \13\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A)(iii). \14\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(f)(6). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Commission has determined to waive the five-day pre-filing requirement and the 30-day operative delay period.\15\ The Commission notes that accelerating the operative date will allow Nasdaq to exchange the Series B Preferred for the Series D share with NASD. Therefore, the foregoing rule change has become immediately effective and operative upon filing pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A)(iii) of the Act \16\ and Rule 19b-4(f)(6) thereunder.\17\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \15\ For purposes only of accelerating the operative date of this proposal, the Commission has considered the proposed rule's impact on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. 15 U.S.C. 78c(f). \16\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A)(iii). \17\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(f)(6). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- At any time within 60 days of the filing of the proposed rule change, the Commission may summarily abrogate such rule change if it appears to the Commission that such action is necessary or appropriate in the public interest, for the protection of investors, or otherwise in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. IV. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change, as amended, is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods: Electronic Comments
Use the Commission's Internet comment form (http:// www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml); or Send an e-mail to firstname.lastname@example.com. Please include File No. SR-NASD-2005-145 on the subject line. Paper Comments Send paper comments in triplicate to Jonathan G. Katz, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, Station Place, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-9303. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NASD-2005-145. This file number should be included on the subject line if e-mail is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commissions Internet Web site (http://www.sec.gov/ rules/sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for inspection and copying in the Commission's Public Reference Room. Copies of the filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of NASD. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NASD-2005-145 and should be submitted on or before January 20, 2006. For the Commission, by the Division of Market Regulation, pursuant to delegated authority.\18\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \18\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jonathan G. Katz, Secretary. [FR Doc. E5-8128 Filed 12-29-05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8010-01-P


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Rowperfect UK
Rowperfect UK sells rowing and sculling equipment. We select the products for their technical superiority and their ability to help athletes and coaches improve skills and make faster racing boats. Rowperfect represents four major products: Coxmate, Dreher oars and sculls, Magik oarlocks and Rowperfect.
Rowperfect UK supports improved technical excellence in rowing, sculling and coaching for clubs, athletes and coaches. We write regularly on our news page and on twitter. Articles include coach and athlete interviews, technical advice and product news.
Backstory on the Rowperfect UK, its history, founders and owners.

subset: commoncrawl


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Long-eared Owl Relocated
Yesterday afternoon I got the following e-mail from Don Burggraf, who as you may remember joined me on an unsuccessful expedition Friday to locate the Long-eared Owl.
After I left you, I returned to the car and looked up Croton Point Park in the Audubon book, and couldn't find the park listed there. I looked on my New York map and saw that it wasn't listed there. So, I just went to Floyd Bennet Field (discovering many of the areas listed in the Audubon guide are now closed) and Breezy Point (finding just how well named the place is – whew! – and no purple sandpipers).
However, remembering your story of a Christmas count a couple of years ago, I decided to look one more time on my way South this morning, leaving the city. I went back to the area, found the perch we examined yesterday empty, and then I looked for white-wash. I saw some that looked relatively fresh, and some of that crumbly stuff you showed me in the Botanical Gardens. Some of the white-wash was closer to the stairs leading down to the Maryland memorial. I went around the area, looking for white wash around other trees without success. I thought I would climb the stairs one more time and have a last look. This time I started scanning as I was standing at the top of the stairs — AND I FOUND THE BIRD!
It was not visible from the place where you and I had been scanning for the bird yesterday. You showed me three trunks close together (and the bird had previously perched on the left-most trunk). This time, the bird was perched on a branch off the center trunk, considerably closer to the stairs leading down. I was able to see the orange face, the ear tufts, the heavily streaked breast, the tail. I saw it turn its head.
Today I took Beth to find the owl since she still hadn't seen it. It had moved back to its usual brach though it was a little higher up and harder to see than it sometimes is:
I still don't know whether the owl was actually in that tree on Friday when Don and I first looked. We searched that tree pretty thoroughly, so I suspect not; but owls are really good at hiding and we could have missed it. I guess we'll never know. But for now it seems the owl has returned to Prospect Park.


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The Soap Bundle
Bundle your soaps and save! In the notes to seller at check out choose any combination of 6 soaps or leave it blank and we'll surprise you!
Each bar in the soap bundle is discounted and is shipped free via USPS priority!
Scents will be subject to availability if a chosen scent is unavailable a similar product will be substituted.
All bars are made with high-quality plant-based oils including coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, natural colorings and essential oils for scents. All soaps are free of harsh detergents and additives. Non- GMO, cruelty-free, and vegan. All bars are hand poured and cut with care, approximately 6oz each.
Handmade fresh in small batches in the USA using natural and organic ingredients!
Cruelty-Free, Paraben Free, NO preservatives or artificial fragrance, SLS free, Palm Oil Free
Share this Product
Customer Reviews
This is the best soap I have found! I like that all the ingredients are natural and skin friendly. It's also very moisturizing and smells great!
Since I've started using Puro soap my skin is smooth, not dry and flaky. Love the flavors too!
I've purchased shampoo, face and regular soaps. I love them all! They all smell fantastic, lather so well and leave me feeling clean but not stripped off my natural oils.
I am thinking this is the best deal yet! I love these soaps and don't like to run out!! Thank you for this bundle. These soaps make wonderful gifts.
The bundle of soaps i got were awesome. The smells are fantastic and i love them all!! I cant wait to order some more and get the ones i wanted that were out!!


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It's your opening tee shot, and you slice the ball out of bounds. It's a nightmare start. Frustrated, you reach for a provisional and result in smashing it straight down the middle of the fairway. If it was so easy, why didn't you do that the first time?
It's even worse on the greens; standing over a straightforward six-footer, your nervy effort shaves the edge of the hole. Conceding defeat, you drag it back and have another go – pretending it never happened. This time you never look like missing. It's like there is a Player A and a Player B…
Player B is the man. If only you could play like him all the time. He steps up and always hits the middle of the fairway, holes every putt and his wedge play is sublime; this man can get up and down from anywhere.
Nerves never affect Player B. He could win every weekend swindle and his name would be engraved on every honours board in the clubhouse. He's so good he could even turn pro. You can see him now, Royal St George's at the Open Championship as Ivor Robson announces: "On the tee, Player B."
The problem is, Player B only comes out when Player A has been a naughty boy and stuffed it in the rough, drilled one into the clag, sunk his ball in the drink or left it short from inside 5ft.
Player B is our saviour; he is the reason we will tee it up again this weekend, because maybe this weekend, Player B will dust down his FootJoys, pull the driver out and nonchalantly launch it down the middle like the pro he is. If only Player A could do the same…
But you don't ever want to get to Player C and D. Player C has the yips and Player D couldn't hit himself, let alone a golf ball. And, heaven forbid if you ever pull out the drunken schizophrenic that is Player Z. If you do, it's probably time to pack it in and retire to the bar.
Have a great weekend, and here's hoping Player B steps onto the tee. Happy golfing!


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Tank "Compliments" Remix feat. T.I. [VIDEO]
There's a lot of love songs hitting the radio this summer. But Tank has one of them voices that set him apart from the rest.
Along with "Next Breath", the dedication song "Compliments" is another smash hit off his This is How I Feel Album.
Check out the music video featuring T.I and see what "the most beautiful girl in the world" looks like!
The radio version omits T.I.'s verse. Making it a perfect dedication from a man to his woman.
The songstress on the track is newcomer Kris Stephens. She explains her big break below.
"I met Tank in Maryland actually, but we kept in contact, and he worked on my solo project as an EP [executive producer]," Stephens said in an interview with BET.com. "The chemistry was really off the top and grew organically. I guess he saw a lot of him in me as far as my drive."
Stephens first linked up with Tank six years ago; shortly after dropping out of business school to pursue a music career full time. She had taken a risk and walked away from a solid job in city government to work at her dream.
"I honestly didn't know what I wanted to do," Stephens said of her days studying business management at Tompkins University. "I was trying to figure my life out and before I knew it I was literally in class writing songs, not paying attention to anything. That's when it hit."
She moved down to Atlanta and briefly joined a girl group, but it didn't pan out. Tank took an interest, however, and the two have been writing songs together ever since — especially for his latest album, This Is How I Feel.


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Decorating & Preparation of the venue
As an exclusive use venue we want you to do no more than enjoy your wedding day. You and your suppliers will have access to the venue from 1-6pm on the afternoon before your wedding, to set up and decorate the venue and drop off any drinks. The caterers can also come in to drop off and set up tables for the big day.
On the day of the wedding, catering and other local suppliers will have access from 9.00 am
Food & Catering
Food plays an integral part on the day and we want everything to be of the highest standard for you.
In our experience, we believe the best option for you to have a great wedding is to use professional caterers rather than rely on friends and family. As a responsible venue, we want to operate within the guidance and requirements for food hygiene and safety. We do therefore only work with an exclusive list of excellent Norfolk caterers who are the only companies permitted to cater at The Reading Room.
They are all as passionate as we are about creating a magical day with first class service and food. They are creative and flexible and very happy to design a menu to your requirements for your special day.
So regrettably this means we cannot accommodate self-catering wedding food and the catering area is for staff only.
Guests are welcome to use confetti, providing it is biodegradable / natural dried petals.
Health & Safety
Dry ice, confetti guns, bubble machines and smoke machines are not permitted as they can trigger fire alarms. To comply with the law and for insurance purposes, there is a strict no smoking policy anywhere inside the venue. Smoking and E-cigarettes are permitted in the garden and ashtrays will be made available on outside tables and in the garden area.
As we are in a rural location with woods & farmland, we will make guest aware that all children and vulnerable adults must be closely supervised at all times.
Fireworks and Sky Lanterns
As we are situated in a beautiful rural location, which we are keen to protect, fireworks and sky lanterns are not permitted.
Music and Entertainment
We do have recommendations, but do feel free to use your own DJ's and Band. They will be asked to keep the music to a comfortable level for your guests as we are in a rural area.
We do have a pa system for your ceremony and background music during the day.
Finishing Times
Friday and Saturday:
We advise that last drinks be served at 11.20 and the final dance to be at 11.30 after which time the music is switched off. We will request that all guests have left the premises by 12.00 midnight.
Sunday - Thursday:
We advise that last drinks be served at 10.50 and the final dance to be at 11.00 after which time the music is switched off. We will request that all guests have left the premises by 11.30.
There is ample parking for guests.
Someone will be at hand in the car park to assist and make sure people have left safely, before the car park is locked. Cars may be left overnight, but will need to be collected by 11.00 am the next day.
The Reading Room is situated in the Gardens of The Old Rectory. As a family business, we will be on hand during the day to help ensure the day runs smoothly for you and your guests and it is a day to remember for all the right reasons.


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This Item Qualifies for Free Standard Shipping
A. Jaffe 18K White Gold Diamond Milgrain Ring Setting with Diamond Head and Quilted Inner Shank, 0.
Price: $2,180.00
Shipping Info
Ring Information
- Metal: White Gold
Center Diamond
- Ring can be set with: Diamond
Accent Gemstone
- Type: Diamond
- Number: 1
- Minimum Carat Weight: 0.35
Item InformationVintage charm combines with impeccable craftsmanship in the 18K White Gold Diamond Milgrain Ring Mounting with Diamond Head and Quilted Inner Shank by A. Jaffe. Designed with graduated diamonds on the shank, this ring mounting has a diamond head and gracefully designed quilted interior. Vintage milgrain edging adds character to this 18K white gold ring that can be personalized with a diamond of your choice (sold separately).
Certain sizes may not be available for immediate delivery. For more information, please call 800.642.GIFT or email us at [email protected]


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Barber services focused on women gain ground in Brazil
"Where there is demand, there is a niche market," Tiago Costa, Jacques Janine.
In the last few years, the beauty industry has witnessed an increase in the number of barbershops across Brazil. According to Euromonitor, between 2012 and 2016, the number of barbershops in the country increased by more than 500%, also giving the franchise sector a boost. Since 2015, the number of barbershop franchises more than doubled, according to the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF).
Although barbershops traditionally cater to the needs of men, lately they have seen the number of clients not only grow, but also become more diverse, with women starting to come in as well. Marcos Caruso, proprietor of Paint Black, in São Paulo, said that two out of every 10 clients in his barbershop are women.
"The numbers have been growing steadily, and the same goes for the number of professionals that have taken an interest in this field," says Tiago Costa, barber and facial hair expert at the salon chain Jacques Janine. He was one of the first professionals in Brazil to specialize in catering to the female clientele, in 2015. "I noticed there were many women who wanted to shave their heads, but could not find anyone who would do it for them."
Costa explains that barber services for women go beyond knowing how to do a short haircut. In this case, instead of using scissors, barbers use a straight razor and hair clippers. The techniques used must also take into consideration the facial features of women in order to achieve a light and delicate look, such as "a round shape at the nape of the neck and thinner sideburns."
At Paint Black, which is also a tattoo studio in addition to a barbershop, the female clientele is "hipper, more into fashion and trends," says Caruso.
At the Jacques Janine salon at Shopping Center Norte (the first branch of the chain to offer barbers services for women), in São Paulo, the clientele is more diverse. "I see women who are going through medical treatments that compromise the integrity of their hair, such as chemotherapy and alopecia, while others are undergoing a hair style transition and want to do a 'big chop', without compromising on style," says Costa. "But there are also those who wish to get a radically different haircut or just have a style that is modern and easy to maintain, requiring little more than a quick blow dry and some pomade or wax to look perfect."
Barber Camila Murena says that women still make up a small portion of the demand for barber services, since "the barbershop universe is still dominated by men." After all, a place where the vast majority of the clients are male and most of the professionals are also male could scare potential female clients away.
Seeking to bring these two groups of clients together, rather than keep them apart, Murena works at a place that is a mix between a traditional salon and a modern barbershop called Viva La Vida, which is also located in São Paulo. "Women will go to a barbershop when the place feels familiar to them," she says.
The proprietor of Paint Black is likewise trying to diversify his clientele. "There is room for everybody, and we cannot segregate or label people. A client is a client, and everyone should be treated the same way, regardless of their gender," says Caruso.
With a growing number of female celebrities sporting very short haircuts, such as Brazilian actress Deborah Secco and American pop singer Katy Perry, the demand for barber services for women is likely to increase in the upcoming Brazilian summer season. "This sort of hair style suits everyone, with any type of hair," says Costa.
Costa says it is still too early to say whether there is a true movement of barber services for women in Brazil. "This kind of service still needs to gain traction. However, where there is demand, there is a niche market, so I see no obstacles to the growth of this sector," he says.


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When it comes to the competitive job sectors, publishing has earned itself quite a reputation for being notoriously difficult to break into. This is not helped by the digital revolution and the rise of the e-book. We have also seen books starting to be published online, cutting out the middleman.
There are a number of different types of publisher:
- Trade Publishers: these produce books and e-books. These will include novels, non-fiction such as biographies or cookery books that you buy on the high street or online.
- Academic and Educational Publishers: these produce specialist titles and include textbooks, guidebooks, reference books etc.
- Scientific, medical and technical publishers (STM): these are produced for those working in a technical or specialist field, so related knowledge is useful.
What are the key roles in a publishing house?
- Editorial
- Other: Contracts, Design, Production, publicity, marketing, sales & rights
The purpose of this department is to acquire and publish books. It's a commissioning editor's role to build a list of authors and books for printing. As well as maintaining strong relationships with the authors already on their list, they work with agents, go to book fairs and literary events, and scour newspapers, magazines and blogs to find the best new writers around, often having to pitch against other publishers for the acquisition.
Once an editor has acquired a book, they will edit the manuscript with the author, offering broad suggestions on structure, characterization or plot. If it's an illustrated book, they will work with the Design department to commission illustrations and source or commission photographs. Editors have an influence on everything about a book, from the cover design to production details, and will work closely with the Sales, Marketing and Publicity teams.
When a manuscript leaves the editor's desk, it goes to the Copy Editorial department for copy editing. The copy editors read the manuscript to check for repetition, contradictions, clarity, consistency, and simple mistakes of spelling, punctuation and grammar. They will also check factual information and look out for anything that might be libellous.
Editors will specialise in a particular field (often called a list), for example crime thrillers.
A summary of Commissioning Editors responsibilities are:
- Negotiating agreements and contracts with literary agents and authors
- Planning, organising and monitoring the progress of projects
- Undertaking market research and investigating market trends
- Reading, evaluating and commissioning titles
- Liaison with authors, literary agents, marketing and production staff including designers and printers
- Supervising the work of editorial staff
- Attending book fairs
- Writing reports
Editorial Assistant
Most editors begin their careers as editorial assistants or secretaries to publishers. As an editorial assistant, you'll work closely with an editor or publisher as a form of apprenticeship. An editorial assistant's job involves liaising with authors and agents as well as the in-house departments of Design, Copy editorial, Production, Publicity and marketing. A good eye for detail, strong negotiation skills, a keen commercial sense and good people skills are all essential. A passion for reading and an excellent command of the English language are also crucial.
Copy Editorial
Their role is to go through a typescript with a fine-tooth comb. They look at the basics of spelling and grammar and sense and also check for consistency and continuity. Many of the larger publishers will employ large numbers of freelancers to help them in this task, and these have to be managed and supported. Copy editors like words – they have a micro rather than a macro approach.
More Information: WORK EXPERIENCE IN FIRST YEAR
More information: SUMMER INTERNSHIPS IN MEDIA
More information: GRADUATE SCHEMES IN MEDIA


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Part 1
Most of the time she felt like she was floating in a world of nothingness, disembodied, not knowing who or where she was. Then there were times she felt so tired and heavy that the only thing she wanted to do was sleep and never wake up. Or she was so hot she thought she would burn up; other times she shivered with cold and felt her teeth chatter so violently that she feared her head would burst due to the shaking.
But all along she was aware of a strong presence close to her. There was a soothing deep voice, talking to her and calming her down when she struggled and screamed in feverish dreams. There were soft hands, wiping her forehead and body with a wet cloth in order to cool her down. When she was shivering there were strong arms, wrapping her in thick blankets to warm her up.
She knew she had to hold on to that force or she would die. It was this presence that helped her to hang on.
And the piano. Every now and then she heard the piano being played. It sounded so beautiful through her restless sleep, the notes and melodies like a rope of pearls curling around her body, making her feel warm and safe. It had to be her mother. Yes. Who else but her mother played that instrument so masterfully?
She stirred in her bed and opened her eyes. "Mama? Mama!" Was that raspy low voice hers? Anyway, her call had been heard, the piano fell silent, and she heard approaching footsteps. No, it wasn't her mother who bent down to lay a soothing hand on her forehead. "Shsh," a young man with blue grey eyes said. "Shsh, don't worry. Everything will be fine. Drink this." A glass was held to her lips and she drank, all the while looking into those kind eyes. She hadn't realized before how thirsty she was. Frowning she tried to find out what was happening. Where was her mother and the piano? And who was that man with the soothing hands?
Confusion overwhelmed her. She was too tired to think. Later she would figure everything out, later. She let the man pull the blankets up to her chin and fell into a deep sleep.
The next time she awoke it was to the sounds of the piano again. She lay with her eyes closed, relishing the music and listening as the melody waved up and down and wove its way right under her skin. How good that felt. Must be years since she had heard a piano being played.
She knew the piece. It was one of her favorites, "For Elise" by Beethoven.
But oh, it didn't take her long to realize it was not her mother playing. Her mother had played better, much better. Besides, her mother had died many years ago. Whoever was at the piano now played wonderfully in some parts, hesitantly in other parts and always made the same mistake in that difficult part in the middle of the piece. Again and again, the player stumbled over those notes, stopped and started anew.
She lay still and listened. Always the same: the beginning was wonderful, but the player wasn't able to manage that difficult part. It started tearing at her delicate, weakened nerves. But the player proved to be very patient. Another start. The melody floated. She held her breath in anticipation and gritted her teeth - there it was - the notes clashed, dissonances filled the room and made her stomach clench.
The musician had more patience than she could muster right now. "No, please," she called. "Stop that!"
She was shocked by the weakness of her voice. It was no more than a whimper. But the piano player must have heard her, just like the first time. There he was, the same young man, smiling down at her. "You are awake! And you look much better than yesterday!" The satisfied smile broadened.
"Was it you at the piano …?" she whispered.
He lowered his eyes. "Yes, I'm afraid. Sorry to have caused you discomfort. It's been a long time... I just couldn't resist." The smile was back. "I'm glad you seem to be better. You should drink some broth now."
Broth? Who would have made broth for her? There was nobody else living in her house...
Through the open door of her bedroom she watched him walk over to the stove and fill something from a pot into one of her big mugs. My, was he tall and lean! He came back and helped her sit up against the pillows. Then he started feeding her the contents of the mug – it was indeed broth. It tasted good. While she was fed she studied his face. He had beautiful slate blue eyes and handsome features. She shoved the spoon away. "Did you make that broth?" "Yes," he said, lifting the spoon to her lips. It was hard to understand. No one had cooked anything for her in years. She lived alone. Apart from ... apart from ...
"My animals!" she gasped, throwing the blankets aside and trying to rise. "The mare! Oh my God!"
"Calm down." He set the mug aside and pressed her back against the pillows. "They have been cared for."
"But who...?"
"I did."
"The mare...?"
"She's fine, and the newborn foal, too. The chickens and the cow are full and happy," he soothed.
The new born foal... Frowning, she tried to remember. She had wanted to help the mare when her time came. She had felt weak, sick and dizzy that day, but who else was there for the mare?
So she had pulled herself together and headed for the barn. The last thing she remembered was crossing the yard and the whole world spinning around her.
"Now go back to sleep, you are tired, I can see that. I won't disturb you with the piano, I promise." His voice interrupted her thoughts. She looked up to him. God bless that young man.
While she was letting the man lower her down onto the pillows her gaze fell on the clothes she wore.
Why, she was wearing nothing but a nightgown! She certainly hadn't walked over to the barn clad in just a nightgown!
She had to ask. She was so tired, and it was so stupid, but she had to know.
Grabbing his hand she looked him right in the eyes.
"Did you undress me?" He had the modesty to lower his eyes, but only for a second. Then it was back, that steady quiet gaze. "Yes, Ma'am. I'm afraid I had to. You were feverish, I had to cool you down. I had to check if you were wounded, too." His gaze never wavered.
"Sure," she said and, closing her eyes she let go of his hand. 'Later, I'll deal with that later.'
But there was something else she needed to ask now.
"What's your name, son?"
"I'm Scott Lancer, Ma'am, from the San Joaquin Valley."
Part 2
The next time she woke up it was dark, except for the weak light coming from the lamp on her nightstand. She felt rested and better than before, but she was so thirsty she could have emptied the lake behind her house with only a few swallows. Water. When she turned her head towards the nightstand where she hoped to find something to drink she realized a steady low noise near her bed. A noise she hadn't heard in her bedroom since her husband had died. Breathing. The even slow breathing of a sleeping person, close to her. Propping herself up on one elbow she saw the young man sitting in her armchair, close to the light. He seemed sound asleep, sunk down in the cushion, one arm hanging over the armrest, the other rested on a book lying open in his lap.
His face was soft and relaxed, a single strand of hair hanging across his forehead. Taking her chance, she studied him. My, he really was a handsome young man; not that she hadn't realized that before. But now it was confirmed. Her heart went out to him. Asleep, he looked so young, barely older than a boy, although she guessed him to be in his midtwenties.
Poor boy, he looked exhausted. She must have given him a hard time. How many days and nights had he cared for her? How many hours had he sat with her?
But - slouching in the armchair like that throughout the night his back likely would hurt like hell tomorrow. Maybe she should wake him and and tell him to lie down on the sofa? Sitting up she reached out to touch his knee. "Sorry, son?" He didn't move. When even a light tapping on his leg didn't provoke as much as a twitch of his eyelids she hesitated. Why not let him rest? Why disturb him? He seemed to be exhausted - and he was young. His back would stand the discomfort far better than hers would have.
She drew her hand back to grab the glass of water he must have set on the nightstand and drank. The water was cold and felt good in her throat. She emptied the glass. Setting it back on the nightstand she sighed with relief. She had been very sick, but she would be fine in a couple of days, thanks to this young man. He had cared for her... - oh no – and he had undressed her.... Remembering the talk between them earlier she felt a wave of heat sweep through her. One quick glance over to him – he hadn't moved – and she lifted her nightgown to look down at her body, frowning. Oh dear, that was what he had seen: wrinkled skin, formless lax flesh, sagging breasts. The thought of him having seen and touched her body felt awkward, if not shameful.
But then, why should it? Had the fever already burnt up her brains?
Dropping the nightgown she lay down and with emphasis drew the blankets up to her chin. It wasn't her fault she was old. Yes, he could have been her son. Perhaps it was that change of roles that felt so awkward. She should be the one caring for him. In fact, she had cared for more human beings than she could remember, especially men. She had tended her husband, her son, ranch hands. They always seemed to be sick or wounded. Girls or women had proven to be much tougher. Anyway, this time she had been the one to need help. So what? But still...
Her eyes glanced over at him and rested on his fingers lying across the book. The "fingers of a piano player" her mother would have said. But those hands were capable of more than playing a piano. They had felt rough and calloused. They had to be used to hard work. Yet they had touched her gingerly when tending her. The thought of those hands on her body suddenly made her skin prickle. Don't be silly, biddy! You're 60, not 16. Foolish old shrew. Well. Maybe she was sixty, but she wasn't blind yet. She was able to recognize a good looking man when she saw one. And yes, he was handsome!
Sighing, she closed her eyes and, listening to his even peaceful breathing she let herself drift back to sleep.
She awoke to the sound of clattering dishes. She opened her eyes and saw him through the open bedroom door, busying himself in her kitchen. Good boy - what had his name been? Scott. Yes. Scott … Lancy - or something like that. Well then, hopefully the meal "Scott" prepared was for her. She was so hungry, her stomach felt like a huge hole. She felt rested and strong, so why not get up and help him in the kitchen?
She wasn't prepared for the dizziness that overwhelmed her as she sat up and swung her legs onto the floor. What was that? Bending over, she rested her head on her knees and waited for the spinning to stop.
"Easy, Ma'am, easy. What do you think you're doing? You can't get up yet!" Through the buzzing in her ears she heard his dark voice and felt strong arms helping her lean back against the headboard of her bed.
Taking a deep breath she opened her eyes to meet his, watching her with concern. "You okay?"
She nodded. "I wanted to help..."
"Not yet, but soon," he said.
God, he simply didn't know how strange it felt to be cared for and let others do the work all the time.
He reached for the tray he had set on the nightstand. "Here's your breakfast, Ma'am."
"Thank you, … Scott." She put the tray on her lap and motioned to the armchair he had slept in during the night. "Sit down, son, please." He fetched his own mug of coffee from the kitchen, then did as she had told him.
Looking at him she smiled. "I wanted to say thank you, Scott, thank you for everything you are doing here. It's been a long time anyone did anything for me and I feel rather… overwhelmed. I'm not used to being helped. And – stop that 'Ma'am', I'm not used to that, either," she smiled. "My friends call me Cathy. Actually, my name is Catherine."
"Catherine," he slowly repeated, surprise written all over his face. "That was – that was my mother's name..." Turning his head he looked out of the window with an absent gaze.
"Oh, what a coincidence. Was? She's dead, then? I'm sorry." She watched him stare out of the window with a forlorn expression. He turned his attention back to her and cleared his throat.
"Thank you. But it's okay, she died long ago, I never knew her. She died when I was born."
For a second his expression belied his casual words. For a short time the curtain to his soul was lifted and she saw a sadness in his eyes that made her want to take him in her arms.
But then the moment was over. He lowered his gaze and shifted in the armchair.
"That's not your fault. I'm sorry anyway, son."
He nodded. The quiet gaze was back and she saw, for him the matter was closed.
Part 3
Chop ... chop ... chop ... chop ...
The steady noise penetrated the light doze she had fallen into after supper the next day.
Must be Scott, again, doing her work. Shame and frustration washed over her. There she lay in bed while he was working, day after day the same thing. That had to stop right now. Enough was enough. How was she supposed to regain strength when lying in bed all day? Besides, didn't she feel better, much better every day - new born, so to speak? And - speaking of newborn - she wanted to see the foal. Scott had told her to stay put and rest, but - who did he think he was to tell her what to do? Cathy cared for her own, always had and always would.
With determination, she put her feet on the floor and rose. Okay. She didn't fall. First, she felt a little shaky, but her legs carried her. Wrapping a blanket around her shoulders she walked over to the washstand and dared a glance in the mirror. Oh dear. What a mess. What might the boy think of her? A ghost like face with large eyes stared at her out of the mirror, white like a sheet. The lines marring her features were deeper than ever, her face looking even more gaunt than usual. This grotesque face was framed by a wild scrub of long, tousled grey hair. To be honest, she looked like a sorceress. Shaking her head she reached for the comb and tried to tame the wilderness on her head.
Vanity is a sin, Cathy Henderson. But she was a woman, and with that young man in her house it was necessary to regain some of her dignity. If nothing at least her hair had to be proper. For the time being a braid, hanging down to the small of her back, would do.
She made her way to the back door where the noise came from. Leaning against the doorframe she stood, staring at the sight in front of her. Scott was chopping firewood, and it seemed he wanted to make sure she had enough for the next ten years, if the pile that had grown next to him was any indication. That was not the only thing that had changed during her sickness. She let her eyes wander and noticed the repaired barn roof and doors. The new corral had been finished, and the water trough beneath the pump looked new to her. The old one had lost water through a small hole.
She looked back at him. Scott was covered in dust and sweat. He worked with his shirtsleeves rolled up, his shirt unbottoned to his waist. Gone was the aura of the refined gentleman. Yes, Scott Lancer was capable of more than playing the piano and talking about Greek poets. He had been an enigma to her until she learned he had been raised in Boston, by his grandfather. He had been educated to become a member of the Boston High Society. He had attended the University of Harvard and was studying to become a lawyer. And now he lived on a ranch and did the work of a cowboy, as if he had never done anything else. What a crazy decision to make! But hadn't she done the same, years ago? Hadn't she left a rich and easy life to build a ranch in California, together with her husband?
She looked at the pile of chopped wood and the new water trough. It was good to have him here. Not that she wasn't able to chop her firewood herself. She always did. But it became harder on her every year. All the hard work did. Maybe she would have to leave her farm sometime within the next couple of years to live in her daughter's house in San Francisco.
But not yet. No, not yet.
If he had been looking for work she would have hired him. But he wasn't a stray, like those men that had worked for her before. He knew who he was and where he belonged. Right from the beginning of their acquaintance she had sensed a quiet self-assurance and power within him that made her feel safe and secure in his presence. No, this young man was a man who didn't need her help. She grinned with frustration. Oh dear, this time it was rather the other way round. That wasn't easy to stand.
The sound of chopping stopped. Straightening he arched his back and saw her standing in the door. She straightened, waiting for a comment. And there it was.
"Ma... Cathy! What do you think you're doing? You shouldn't be walking around yet!" With three long strides he was by her side. Shoving his hat back he looked down at her, his eyes dark with disapproval, hands on his hips.
A single drop of sweat made its way from his temple down his cheek and neck to dissappear in his shirt collar. It left a tiny shiny line on his dusty face. Tilting her head, she watched with fascination. My, he looked like a boy who has played in the dirt... an angry boy, for that matter... if he knew how cute he looked ...
Stop. Was she getting soft in her old days?
Pulling herself together, she stepped close to him. "And you shouldn't be chopping my firewood! I can do that by myself!" Their eyes locked. She was the first to lower her gaze. What a stupid thing to say. Right now she felt as if she wasn't able to stand any longer by herself, to be honest. God, how she hated her weakness. Looking up again she touched his arm. "I'm sorry, Scott. I didn't mean it. It's just..."
"I know, Cathy. No apology necessary." Lifting his arm he wiped his brow with his shirtsleeve, leaving more smears on his face. "Now you should go back inside, it's too hot in the sun for you to stay outside."
She shook her head. "Not yet, Scott. I'm fine." He raised a brow in that special way of his. Grinning, she admitted, "... okay, fine enough to have a look at the foal." Raising her chin she turned to walk towards the corral. He would never know how shaky her legs were...
But there he was by her side, offering her his arm. Taking a bow he lifted his hat, then he asked with mock politeness, "May I lead you to the corral, Mylady?"
He always seemed to know how she felt and what she needed.
The foal stood on its long thin legs and stared at them with curiosity. Its ears turned towards them, its nostrils twitching. It was black, with a white spot on its forehead and three white ankles.
"It's a colt," Scott said.
"He'll be a beautiful strong stallion," she whispered, regarding the colt with pride. What a sweet little animal that foal was. She reached out and let it sniff at her hand. Then, he started sucking at her fingers. She laughed. The mare and the foal were fine, thank goodness. And thanks to the young man leaning next to her against the box, propped on his elbows.
"Thank you, Scott, for everything you have done and still are doing for me," she said.
"My pleasure," he said. "I only did what anyone would have done."
"Not sure about that, Scott."
A silence arose between them. Scott regarded his folded hands as if they were of great interest. Then he looked up.
"Anyway, what's his name?" he asked, changing the subject. He was always so modest.
She hadn't thought about a name for the foal before. Yes, of course that little animal needed a name. A good decent name.
She looked at the man standing by her side. Young, barely older than a boy, tall and slender, long legged like the foal...
"What about Scotty? Yes, I think his name should be Scotty! That would fit!"
He winced. Then he took two steps backwards, stretching out both hands. "No. No, Cathy, no. Not Scotty, please."
Taken aback by his passionate reaction, she asked, "Why not?"
"That's what my Grandfather used to call me. I hate that nickname!"
Frowning she looked at him, then back to the colt that was watching them with its big brown eyes. So far, he had always talked about his family with warmth and love, especially about his new found father and brother. But, there seemed to be something between him and his grandfather. Something that wasn't right, and there was more to it than that nickname. Anyway, whatever it was, due to his grandfather he had become the fine man he was. He had to appreciate that, didn't he?
But it was none of her business.
"All right. Then I want you to give him a name, a name that will remind me of you. After all, you have saved our lives."
He looked at the colt, now running through the corral, bucking and throwing it's legs, full of spirit and vitality.
When he looked back at her there was a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
"Johnny. I want you to call him Johnny. That's my brother's name. He reminds me of him, he's wild and untamed, just like Johnny."
"Johnny ..." She regarded the foal. "Johnny.., yes, that's a fine name. And he looks like a 'Johnny', too."
Part 4
A couple of days later she watched Scott ride away. He rode along the corral fence at a very slow pace, his back straight. She never had seen a cowboy riding his horse the way he did. But then, he hadn't been a cowboy for most of his life.
It wasn't easy to let him go and it hadn't been easy to convince him she was fine now and it was about time for him to go home.
But he had a place where he belonged, and she belonged here. Even more, she wanted to stay here. Of course he had offered her a place on the Lancer Ranch. But she loved this place! When she refused, he had wanted to send out a ranch hand to help. But no, she didn't want any man on her ranch, never. They were more trouble than help. Hadn't her husband died because of his own foolishness? He broke his neck when he tried to break a horse that everyone had warned him of, leaving her alone with two daughters and a son. Several years later her son got himself killed in a stupid useless gunfight down in Fort Harpersville; another tragedy of her life she never had recovered from.
She had tried to work the ranch with her daughters and several ranch hands. But it turned out the men didn't want to take orders from a woman and left one by one. So she and the girls went on alone. When her daughters were married and left the ranch, she sold the cattle and most of the horses. But she stayed, although her oldest daughter wanted her to come along with her to live in San Francisco.
No, this was her home, and she wasn't about to go anywhere. All right, she was getting older. Things weren't as easy as they used to be. She had promised Scott to send regular telegrams to Morro Coyo to let him know she was okay. And she had promised him that, when the time came, she would leave the farm to live with her daughter in San Francisco.
Yet, it was harder on her to see him ride away than she had thought. Maybe she was getting soft in her old age? Having him in her house had been a pleasure, not trouble. A man who knew about music, literature and ranching! A man you could talk with about such things. A man who knew how it felt to deliberately give up the privileges and advantages of a high education and life in a big city. A kindred spirit. She sighed. Yes, she had relished his company.
When he reached the end of the corral where her husband had set the post with the big marker "Henderson's Ranch" in what seemed an era ago, he stopped his horse and turned in the saddle. Motionless, he stared back at her. She didn't move either; then, after several seconds that seemed to her like an eternity, he tipped his hat. She raised an arm in answer. He kicked his horse into motion and raced along the path leading to the road, a cloud of dust following him. She watched him until he disappeared among trees and bushes.
Slowly, she let her hand drop to her side. "Good bye, Scott."
God, it hurt to see him leave.
She turned when she heard the colt gallop through the corral, throwing its head and whinnying.
"Hey, Johnny, what's the matter with you? Are you jealous? I know you're here, boy." The colt stopped next to her. Reaching over the fence she stroked his soft nose. "You know something, buddy?" The colt's ears twitched as she whispered in a conspiratorial voice. "If I'd been 30 years younger … oh boy..." Ha, she wouldn't have let him go, that was for sure.
Johnny's head jerked and he snorted. It almost sounded like laughter. She grinned. "You don't believe me? You had better believe me, little rascal!"
Scott took his time riding back to the Lancer Ranch. Meeting Cathy Henderson had caused a turmoil within him that had to be dealt with before he reached home again. What a tough, strong woman she was!
He had left Lancer a month ago, with a contract in his saddlebags dealing with supplying horses to the army. He was heading to Fort Harpersville to negotiate the contract with General McDonald. He had been very proud that his father trusted him with such an important matter. But, on the other hand, contracts and horses were things he knew a lot about.
The weeks before he left they had branded the calves and the whole action had been a hard lesson. He had known nothing at all about calf branding and the burned flesh had evoked unrequested memories of the war.
He shuddered. Never would he forget that smell...
Besides, he had almost been stabbed by a mad cow that hadn't wanted her calf to be taken away from her.
More than once he had asked himself if this was what he wanted to do with his life. He knew he belonged at Lancer, but God knew how hard ranch life was on him sometimes. No, he'd never shown his doubts and frustrations, but since that day he had arrived in California eight months ago there had been times he had thought he would never fit in the West. His father and brother as well as the ranch hands never became tired of teaching him everything he had to know. And damn, he was eager and determined to learn and not give up, but sometimes it was plain frustrating. And there were times he missed Boston and talking with his Harvard friends very much.
His father must have felt he needed a break and had sent him away with those papers.
On his way home he had found Catherine Henderson, lying in the yard of her farm, hot with fever.
If anything her example had finally shown him where he belonged. She was a civilized person from a city like him and yet she had managed the life of the West. Even more, she had managed to be an independent woman coping on her own for a great part of her life.
Right from the first day he had seen her house he knew she was someone special. There were shelves filled with books and there was – a piano. Like the one his mother had played in the little room next to the Great Room.
Cathy and he had played the piano together, and his mother seemed to look over his shoulder. He felt closer to his mother than ever before.
Cathy had shown him how to manage that damned part in the middle of "For Elise." Not that he was able to do it much better than before, to be honest. His fingers seemed to knot as soon as they reached that part. But Cathy really knew how to play the piece. He smiled at the memory. Yes, she was someone special. And yet, she was not ready to exchange the wilderness for the comforts of a life in the city. With her determination she had made him look at his own life from a different angle.
No, nothing he had in Boston was worth trading for what he had now. Cathy had known that. A beautiful wild landscape, a wonderful ranch, hard work that was truly satisfying and – best of all – his family. And if he needed them, even books and a piano. His mother had been ready to live in the wilderness, Catherine Henderson had been ready to live on a ranch – and yes - he was, too. Hadn't those two women shown him you could live on a ranch and nevertheless stay true to yourself?
One week later Murdoch Lancer entered the Great Room with long determined strides.
It was Monday evening and he knew he was late for dinner. But apart from Johnny, who was slouching on the sofa, no one was in the Great Room. The table was set, but dinner didn't seem to be ready yet. Murdoch let out a breath. Thank goodness. The women didn't take it well when the men were late for dinner. And, to be honest, he didn't like being late himself.
Something was wrong, anyway. Normally, Johnny was the one to be late. Where was Scott?
"Johnny? Where's your brother? Johnny!"
Johnny opened one eye.
"Don't know, Murdoch. Haven't seen him since breakfast. Anyway, Charlie is in his box. Scott must be somewhere around." The eye closed again.
Murdoch shook his head. As soon as his youngest hit the cushions of a sofa he seemed to fall asleep. Just sitting there and reading a book like he or Scott would do didn't seem...
He froze as, all of a sudden, the notes of a melody he knew all too well began to float through the Great Room. Johnny rose from the sofa, very slowly, his now wide open eyes met Murdoch's.
"What's that?"
Johnny turned his head to try and find out from where the sound came. Murdoch's gaze followed his son's to the closed door of the small room . The notes continued to float through the door, drippling right into his heart. Catherine. That was the piece Catherine had loved the most. Funny how music was able to evoke well hidden feelings and images. He saw her sitting at the piano, playing, while the sun shined through the window and lightened her blond hair. Of course, that wasn't Catherine playing. It was her - their - son.
Johnny's voice pulled him back. "That's beautiful, Murdoch. Much more beautiful than Ike Turner's playing in the saloon. Never heard something like that before..." He cocked his head, listening.
Murdoch cleared his throat. "Must be Scott," he said.
"Did you know he can play the piano? I never heard him play before." Johnny looked at him.
"Me neither. But I think... It seems... I have known that. The Pinkerton report told something about music lessons he took when he was a boy. Harlan placed a high value on what he considered as proper education..."
He stopped, feeling ashamed as he realized another detail about Scott's life that he hadn't given any thought. Another detail of Scott's life he yet hadn't been interested in. The old well known feeling of guilt arose. Hadn't Harlan placed high value on Scott while he had placed high value on his ranch?
Ouch, that hurt.
Even now that Scott was living at Lancer he, Murdoch, didn't seem to be able to sense what the boy might miss. He had never thought of the music lessons and what they might have meant to Scott. Yet - he was his father! It had never occurred to him that Scott would like to play his mother's instrument. How inattentive. But - had he ever seriously considered Scott's needs or tried to find out who Scott was?
No, to be honest. Scott hadn't needed the invitation to Lancer nor the 1000 $ for his attention. He was a rich city dweller from the East. How could it have occured to him Scott would want to live on a ranch in California and work like a cowhand? Murdoch had needed Scott to come and he wanted him to stay and become a rancher. That had been pure selfishness and arrogance.
His oldest had proven to be tougher than he looked and he had been willing to learn everything a rancher or cowhand had to know. Even more, he seemed to enjoy his new life. But sometimes he was absent-minded and sad. These moments had increased during the weeks before he left to meet General McDonald. Thank God, this time Murdoch had paid attention and felt what Scott needed. He had sent him away to give him space. When his return took longer than expected he had begun to worry Scott might not come back, that he might send a letter, telling them that he was going back to Boston.
But Scott came back and something had changed. Whatever had happened on his journey, he was more relaxed than ever before. It was as if he had truly come home now.
Johnny whistled. "Proper education, huh? Dios, Garrett has been successful. That playing is real proper."
The music decelerated in a cascade of tones, then ended with a feathery but emphatic sound that seemed to linger.
A chair was pushed across the floor, then Murdoch heard footsteps and the door to the chamber was opened. Scott appeared in the doorframe. He seemed to shine from inside.
Seeing him and Johnny just stand there and stare, unmoving, he stopped in his tracks, looking at them, his eyebrows raised.
"Something wrong?" Scott craned his head to look past them, towards the dining table. "Am I late for dinner?"
Before Murdoch was able to open his mouth and say at least something intelligible Johnny offered, "That was good playing, Brother."
Scott grinned. "Thanks, Brother."
Johnny looked down and shuffled his feet. When he raised his head again Murdoch saw a teasing glimmer in his eyes.
"You know something, Scott? Next time you meet a mad cow and aren't able to rope her you play a piece on that piano. I bet she'll be as tame as a pet and follow you wherever you go..."
Laughing, he dove under Scott's outstretched arm and hurried towards the French Doors, Scott hot on his heels.
"Wait ... I'm gonna teach you some manners!"
They rushed through the French Doors. Murdoch let out a breath. Maybe Scott had found what he had missed. Anyway, he had looked happy.
"Where are those boys going? Dinner's ready."
The sudden voice made him start. He hadn't heard Maria come in. She put a steaming bowl on the table, a frown on her face.
"They want to tame a mad cow with the piano," Murdoch chuckled. It was so good to hear their shouts and laughter coming from outside.
Maria's eyes widened. "Qué?"
She seemed to be in a bad mood. Her hands went to her hips and Murdoch saw the scowl deepen. "The stew will cool down!"
Oh. It was not good to get into the housekeeper's bad books.
"I'm going to call them in, Maria." He hurried to the French Doors, his heart lighter than it had been for ages.
"Scott, Johnny! Come in, dinner's ready!"
~ end ~
August 2011
Author's note: I have to admit I do not know when Beethoven's composition "For Elise" reached the West of the American continent. I found out it was composed in April 1810, but not published until 1867. So, most likely it wasn't known in America in 1871 or even earlier. Scott's mother cannot have played it.
But that doesn't matter to me. I needed the composition, it's a Scott-music for me. So I took the liberty of using the piece in my story. I think Mr Beethoven will forgive me.
Those who are interested in listening to "For Elise" might want to use this link: YouTube - Beethoven - Für Elise (piano solo)
Want to comment? Email BeckyW


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Guide for 65 +
Hi is there anywhere i can see a guide for level 65 and above?
DeadOnM8 ✭✭
wow over 1 hundred views yet nobody knows what to do after level 65? Surely there must be a guide or something out there, i have seen plenty of people level 700
Basically you want to upgrade the gear that's given to you at Level 65 at least up to Heroic Oath. This is due to EME releasing mythic gear set in the future that require legendary gear from Exodor + Heroic Oath to make. Really 65 - 70 is grinding dungeons, upgrading gear, finding the right gems for equipment (Exodor gear makes this part irrevelant). Also Caimen BAM hunting is decent for 65-67, which there are groups that run them daily. Complete all purple quests given to you for XP and unlocking Apex abilites and Exodor dailies. That's really the jist of it. Its been almost 2 month for me since I came back to the game after 5 years and I just got to Level 69 (Work, kids, etc etc).0


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what do we mean and what do we want
when we talk about the free voice?
We want a way of singing that is reflexive, where we are not hampered by attempting to "control" the action. We want the voice to respond to our thought, to our musical intuitions and our desire to communicate.


text: Lids is your source for Rick Porcello Jerseys in all the popular styles to support your favorite athlete! Browse the latest selection of Rick Porcello Jerseys in sizes for all fans to scoop up, along with plenty of Rick Porcello autographed memorabilia, personalized gear and more. When the time comes for Rick Porcello to make winning plays in the big moments to come, make sure you're stocked up on Rick Porcello jerseys, shirts and apparel that matches your devotion.


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The chasquis were the messengers of the Inca empire — the fittest and most highly trained individuals; the best of the best. They would not only run messages across great distances and topographies but could read and translate and helped to keep order.
This coffee is a collection of lots from around Peru that, like its namesake, are the best of the best. Coffee cherries were machine cleaned and processed, and after the coffee was dried it was sorted by color and density to ensure that only the best beans remained.


text: Netflix Nabs Brad Pitt Film About Gen. McChrystal 8:58 AM PDT 6/8/2015 by Tatiana Siegel FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME AP Images Brad Pitt - H 2015 Originally titled 'The Operators,' the film is now dubbed 'War Machine' and will be directed by 'Animal Kingdom' helmer David Michod. Netflix has scooped up rights to the Brad Pitt film about the rise and fall of General Stanley McChrystal that was being shopped at the Cannes film market. Animal Kingdom helmer David Michod wrote the screenplay and will direct the satire, originally titled The Operators and now dubbed War Machine, which will be produced by Netflix and Pitt's Plan B. New Regency and RatPac Entertainment, who were once onboard the project, are no longer involved. The film, which begins shooting in August, will be streamed in 2016 on Netflix and get a theatrical release as well. Based on the late Michael Hastings' controversial best-seller The Operators, the story centers on the commanding general of international and U.S. forces in Afghanistan and offers a behind-the-scenes portrait of our military commanders, their high-stakes maneuvers and the ensuing political firestorm that shook the United States when he was forced to resign. But the film has changed course from its original dramatic vision when the rights were bought, and will now be tonally in the vein of Wag the Dog. Pitt will star as Gen. McChrystal. "War Machine is a rip-roaring, behind-the-facade tale of modern war decision-makers, from the corridors of power to the distant regions of America's ambitions," Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said. "Brad and David are a perfect team to make this timely, compelling and entertaining film." Added Pitt: "We are so excited to be a part of the inspiring commitment by Netflix to produce cutting-edge content and to deliver it to a global audience." The project has been around since Pitt optioned Hastings' book, which stemmed from a Rolling Stone article, in 2013. Michod boarded the project a year ago and began adapting the screenplay. "I'm humbled to be making a big, bold movie about the whole sprawling, complex, cumbersome and crazy machinery of modern war and the many lives it touches," said Michod, who is repped by UTA and attorneys Alan Wertheimer and Kimberly Jaime. Plan B partners Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner also are producing alongside Ian Bryce. CAA, which reps Pitt alongside Brillstein Entertainment and attorney Alan Hergott, handled domestic rights. Updated: CAA, not UTA, negotiated the deal. FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME Tatiana Siegel email@example.com @thr


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