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Artistic Questions and Answers with Laura Braga
Thank you, Twitter. That's where I first discovered the work of Italian artist Laura Braga. Twitter led me to Laura's site, and I was wholly impressed with what I saw there. We struck up a correspondence, and when I was invited back to the writing duties of "Witchblade," I requested Laura as the artist. Thankfully for everybody involved, Top Cow agreed.
Marz Returns to "Witchblade with an All-New Direction
"Witchblade" #172 was just released yesterday, the third issue together for me and Laura, hopefully the third of many issues together. I'm more impressed with her work -- and more thankful to be working with her -- with each passing issue.
There's an initial "getting to know you phase" when an artist and writer start working together, and it's kind of like dating. You figure out each other's likes and dislikes, what each of you is good at, whether you're ultimately compatible. The fruits of that process can yield all-time great writer/artist teams like Lee and Kirby, Claremont and Byrne, Moore and Gibbons, Miller and Mazzucchelli. I've been fortunate enough to have had long-term partnerships with people like Ron Lim, Darryl Banks, Stjepan Sejic and a few others.
Those kinds of partnerships seem more rare at present. Writer-artist teams on work-for-hire projects don't often stay together long enough to build up that sort of working relationship. More often, artists are swapped on and off assignments in order to keep up with the demands of a monthly schedule and the assembly-line nature of shared-universe titles. That's why books like "Batman" by Snyder and Capullo, and "Daredevil" by Waid and Samnee, are such rare pleasures.
It also seems like artists have less of a voice these days, in that you see far more interviews with writers than their artistic counterparts. It's a disservice to what is, as far as I'm concerned, the more necessary aspect to creating comics. No art, no comic. I've wondered aloud why artists get short shrift, especially in reviews. The reason I've most often heard, from interviewers and reviewers themselves, is that they don't feel they have the artistic vocabulary to adequately discuss the art, so they avoid it. More's the pity.
I've been disappointed that a talent like Laura, new to the U.S. market, hasn't been featured in more interviews. So I did one myself.
Ron Marz: Growing up in Italy, did you always want to be an artist?
Laura Braga: Yes, as far as I can remember, I've always wanted to draw comics or cartoons. As a child I spent lots of time drawing or coloring, it was my favorite game. I always said drawing comics would be my job, and I've grown up keeping that promise.
I know from your bio that you attended the International School of Comics in Florence, the Disney Academy in Milan, and the schools of Comic-Animation at Montimages in Bassens and La Salle. What were those like? Did you want to become an animator at first?
All of them have been very positive and constructive experiences for me, especially because they were very different from each other. As a child, I said that I wanted to draw cartoons. Over the years, and maybe also thanks to the animation course, I realized that I was more keen on comics and illustration.
Did you develop more of an animated style at the Disney Academy?
Certainly my style at the beginning was very similar to Disney cartoons. My earliest work (dating from the early 2000s) was definitely influenced by the Disney Academy, and at the time I worked mainly on books for kids. Even now, actually, I feel like that style still very close to me, I like the idea of being able to do more projects that are very different from each other. I think it's a constructive thing for an artist.
Tell me about working with the great Milo Manara. How did you meet him, what was the collaboration like? Did he help evolve your style to what it is now? I feel like I see some hints of Manara in your work.
I first met Milo Manara in 2005, because at that time we were working for the same publisher. We were put into contact by the publisher. Milo was working on creating characters for a commercial for Argentina, and needed a hand to complete some drawings. Later I worked on the coloring of his "46" book. It was certainly important, because it was the first step that drew me to a more realistic style. After that collaboration, I then started to develop a more realistic style.
You have a husband and a son, right? I know your husband is a composer, so how do both of you balance work and family time.
Yes, my husband is a composer and musician, and we have a 4-year-old little boy, who already says that when he grows up he wants to draw with me, or color my drawings! I think I'm very lucky, because my family is the main source of inspiration for my work. My husband and I both have our studios at home, so in spite of having limited time, and so many things to do, we always manage to find time for the family.
Do you work at home, or do you have a separate studio you go to?
I have a small studio at home, where I can better manage the work.
When I first saw your art, I was especially drawn to all the anatomy studies. I think it's fairly unusual for comic artists to show off work featuring bones and muscle structure. More often, it's a bunch of pin-ups.
Anatomy is a very important element. It's the basis of any illustration, not only for a proper drawing, but mainly to give life to the character. Every movement, every muscle in tension, conveys the emotion of the body, and then of the character.
That's a more classical approach I think a lot of artists could learn from. But your working methods are very contemporary in that you work digitally as well as traditionally. I assume digital likely makes composing pages somewhat easier and faster, but do you have a preference for one over the other?
I have no preference really. I started working on paper with ink and brushes, and I've gone digital only in the last few years. I think both worlds have positive and negative sides. Certainly working digitally helps with the deadlines, but it's also true that working on paper gives me more satisfaction. I think the charm of paper is irreplaceable. I try to work both ways, because in general I don't like the idea of working only in one way or another. I find it a bit limiting.
So let's talk about "Witchblade." You've said you were a fan of the book before we started working on it. What did you like about it?
"Witchblade" was one of the first American comics I read. I approached the series for the beautiful drawings by Michael Turner. I think my love for this series is due in large part to the character of Sara. I loved her from the first issue, such a strong woman, but at the same time fragile. Definitely one of the most interesting female characters in comics.
I felt like you would be a great fit for the "Witchblade" because you draw women that feel very real, whether they're tough or vulnerable or sexy or anything in between. Do you feel like you have a better grasp on that because you're a woman?
Maybe, but it's quite unconscious. I just try to draw the characters, in this case a woman, in a way that fits with the personality and with the mood of the story.
The U.S. comics industry has been wrestling with its acceptance of women in creative roles, and obviously has to do a much better job of it. Is the situation in Europe similar? What's your experience been like being a woman in comics?
As for my personal experience, unfortunately it's not uncommon that judgments are made based on being a woman or a man, rather than by the quality of the work. It happened to me when I was younger, at my first work experience. But it's been over 10 years since then, and I think and hope that the general situation today has changed. Now it's normal to have a woman as an artist, colorist or inker. I like to think that talent has no gender, and that good results depend on commitment and hard work.
I think our first issue together was good, our second issue was better, and our third issue is better yet. I feel like you're raising the level or your art every few pages. Do you have that sense?
I hope that the fourth will be even better, and the fifth and all the next ones! This is definitely very important for me, because I'm never fully satisfied with my work. I always see things that can be improved, so I try to do that in the next issue. I have to also say that the story is really compelling. I'm always curious and excited every time I get the script for a new issue, and I try to make it better.
That's flattering, but I think any comic story is only as good as the artist drawing it. Your side of the job is harder than mine. How are you adjusting to the schedule of doing a monthly U.S. comic for the first time, as opposed to work in Europe? That's a lot of pages to pencil and ink every month.
Yes, I think that the strict schedule and monthly deadlines are the biggest differences with the other work that I've done in Europe in recent years. Certainly for the first few issues it was more difficult, but as with all things, with time you learn how to best manage it all.
My goal is to get to reach at least issue #200 on "Witchblade," and I hope you're with me all the way. Can you see yourself doing a long run, or do you think artists are more inclined to shorter runs on titles?
Thanks, Ron, I hope so too! In general, I think that depends on the quality of the project, how much you're involved in it, and on the people you're working with. In a situation like this, I love to work with you and with the entire Top Cow team. There's high quality to the work of the people, and to the project itself. The characters I'm working on have always been my favorite ones in comics. I can definitely say that my wish is to stay on this project for a long time!
P.S. Last week's Shelf Life column offered artists the opportunity to draw a page from "Shinku," and have it seen in the Feb. 13 edition of this column. I've received quite a few of submissions already, but there's still more than a week before the deadline on Feb. 9. See last week's column for full details.
Ron Marz has been writing comics for two decades, and thinks it's pretty much the best job ever. His current work includes "Witchblade" and the graphic novel series "Ravine" for Top Cow, "The Protectors" for Athleta Comics, his creator-owned title, "Shinku," for Image, and Sunday-style strips "The Mucker" and "Korak" for Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. Follow him on Twitter (@ronmarz) and his website, www.ronmarz.com.


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Chemical Games
Over the past six years, Marion Jones, Justin Gatlin, and Floyd Landis have been among the most celebrated names in sports.
Today, they are merely the latest performance enhancement drug suspects in a long tradition of infamy. (We know Jones's positive test was cleared, but she has the most suspicious legacy this side of Barry Bonds.)
We are embarrassed that our sport, which is so fundamentally simple, has been tarnished by drug scandals. However, we're also proud that running and cycling have the most rigorous drug testing policies around. But sometimes, imperfect tests merely add to the confusion.
This won't be your typical article about drugs. It's not that we don't care. We take this very seriously. It's an admission that we have absolutely no idea what the best solution might be.
One school of thought says that we should legalize everything for competition. If you want to use HGH or EPO or synthetic testosterone, or blood doping, go right ahead. If you want to roll the dice and risk your long-term health, that's your business.
It doesn't appear to be much of a moral dilemma for many athletes to use drugs to gain a competitive advantage. We suspect that one reason they cheat is because they believe most of their competitors are doing the same. The financial rewards for victory can be tremendous motivators – no matter how you reach the top.
You can see how this can potentially spiral into a situation where everybody's juicing, because nobody would want to be stuck with the equivalent of bringing only a knife to a gun fight.
So it's not too difficult to envision a future competition where all the athletes are on some drug or another. One sport – bodybuilding – has gone down this road, to the point where they hold two separate competitions: there's a Mr Universe for drug users, and a "Mr Natural Universe" for anyone else.
In fact, many people will tell you this "everybody's juiced" situation is exactly what we have in track and cycling today. The only difference with bodybuilding is that they don't ask us to pretend otherwise.
What if running formally adopted such a policy? Instead of merely having the best athletic ability, competitors would also strive to have the most potent pharmacological cocktail on board before their peak races.
They would be dependent on chemists and lab geeks to achieve their success. Imagine every sprinter's posse with one skinny, bespectacled guy in a short-sleeve plaid shirt with a pocket protector roaming around trying to look cool with the rest of the group. If nothing else, it would provide some comedic irony.
Think about it – who got teased and beat up more in high school than the kids in chemistry club? And weren't the jocks usually the ones doing most of the bullying? And now those two groups would be pairing off in oddball symbiotic relationships like Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley.
The chemists would actually have the upper hand in these partnerships. They would be too valuable to the athlete to be fired – because the chemist could then go and tell everybody else what particular designer drugs the athlete was on. And the athlete knows he or she won't succeed without the help of a good lab geek.
The chemistry dudes could totally revel in this, and do all kinds of trash talking with the sprinters. Between events at track meets, they can congregate on the infield to gossip about their athletes, draw formulas in the dirt and trade periodic table jokes. They might even encounter chemistry groupies wanting to make "covalent bonds" with them after the meets.
Over time, the chemists would get the same rock star treatment the athletes get. The better ones would sign "exclusive rights" contracts with companies like Nike and become millionaires. Scores of little kids will dream of a career in laboratory science, and of growing up to compete at the "Chemical Games," where the torch is an enormous Bunsen burner. The best chemistry students coming out of grad school could be drafted by professional teams and awarded lucrative signing bonuses. If you're a career chemist, where's the downside to any of this?
Realistically, we know this isn't going to happen. We suppose that's for the good. Sports have an inherently noble premise – that athletes are testing the limits of their God-given talents through nothing more than hard work and determination. And despite our jaded outlook, it's a premise we're completely in favor of defending.
Yes, the tests are light years behind the cheaters, but that doesn't mean we should stop the effort. It's just going to take a very long time before the priority (and money) given to testing is equal to the money that changes hands among the top athletes and corporations in every sport.
Until then, most sports will continue to have an anemic system of testing (One time per year for a baseball player? Spare us.), and they'll continue to profess that they're doing everything in their power to rid sports of doping.
All of the top-level athletes will emphatically assert that they are completely clean, and fans will believe what they want to believe about each athlete based on his/her carefully crafted image.
Meanwhile, none of us will ever know for sure if the next heroes like Marion Jones or Floyd Landis are true champions, or merely another example of all that's wrong with sports. That is the true tragedy.

subset: commoncrawl


text: Iraq Transitions As U.S. Forces Withdraw After 8-Year Presence BAGHDAD, IRAQ – DECEMBER 12: Widow Wafaa Shahab (C) holds a photo of her deceased husband Bassim Muhammed while posing with her sons Nooreldin Bassim (L) and Ahmed Bassim on December 12, 2011 in Baghdad, Iraq. Muhammed was said to have been executed by al Qaeda militants in front of his house, forcing Shahab and her three children to flee to Syria and northern Iraq for three years. Nooreldin and Ahmed witnessed the killing. A study by Relief International concluded that around10 percent of the approximately 15 million women living in Iraq are widows. A United Nations report estimated that nearly 100 women were widowed daily at the height of the sectarian violence in 2006. Iraq is transitioning nearly nine years after the 2003 U.S. invasion and subsequent occupation. American forces are now in the midst of the final stage of withdrawal from the war-torn country. At least 4,485 U.S. military personnel have died in service in Iraq. According to the Iraq Body Count, more than 100,000 Iraqi civilians have died from war-related violence. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)


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Lloyds Register: Lloyd's Register Singapore [ Change ]
+65 3163 0888
+65 3163 0528
Call +65 3163 0528 or email email@example.com
The ISO Technical Committee for management systems for food safety, TC34 SC17, met recently in Copenhagen for its annual meeting to discuss the revisions to the international food safety management system standard, ISO 22000, among other key topics.
Cor Groenveld, LRQA's Global Head of Food Supply Chain Services and the Chair of the Board of the Foundation for Food Safety Certification (owner of the FSSC 22000 certification scheme), is a member of TC34 SC17, the working group responsible for the revision of ISO 22000. Cor reported that, "the revision to ISO 22000 will align it with ISO's high level structure – Annex SL – and will cover the comments on improvements received so far. The aim at this stage is for the revised ISO 22000 standard to be published in 2017 at the latest."
With the latest ISO Survey showing a 15% year-on-year increase in the number of ISO 22000 certificates issued, LRQA anticipates a high level of interest in the revision to this standard and will continue to support users with expert insight and a range of training, gap analysis and assurance services, to enable clients to make a smooth transition to the revised standard when it is published.
A separate working group has started to develop ISO-TS 22002-6, which sets out the prerequisite programmes for animal feed production.
Through LRQA's membership of the Independent International Organisation for Certification (IIOC), LRQA participates in all of the major committees helping to shape the future of the world' leading ISO standards including ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 22000 (food safety) and ISO 45001 (the new ISO standard for occupational health and safety, set to replace OHSAS 18001).
LRQA has been at the forefront of communicating the changes to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Our range of services encompasses gap analysis, training (including in-company management briefings and transition planning and facilitation workshops) and assessment. Our services are designed to make the transition to the new standards as seamless as possible for the many thousands of clients that we serve worldwide. To find out more, email email@example.com.


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Has your iPhone or iPad been lost, stolen or broken? Picturescue will recover your precious memories from iTunes' backup files on your Mac.
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Product Description
Sensocon USA Differential Pressure Transmitter Series DPT30-R8 - Range 0 - 10 inWC
DPT-R8 series devices are commonly used in HVAC/R systems for: ⢠Fan, blower and filter monitoring ⢠Pressure and flow monitoring ⢠Valve and damper control ⢠Pressure monitoring in clean rooms
⢠READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO INSTALL, OPERATE OR SERVICE THIS DEVICE.
⢠Failure to observe safety information and comply with instructions could result in PERSONAL INJURY, DEATH AND/ OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
⢠To avoid electrical shock or damage to equipment, disconnect power before installing or servicing and use only wiring with insulation rated for full device operating voltage.
⢠To avoid potential fire and/or explosion do not use in potentially flammable or explosive atmospheres.
⢠Retain these instructions for future reference.
⢠This product, when installed, will be part of an engineered system whose specifications and performance characteristics are not designed or controlled by Sensocon. Review applications and national and local codes to assure that the installation will be functional and safe. Use only experienced, knowledgeable, technicians to install this device.
Performance Accuracy (at applied pressure) Ranges < 0.5 inWC = ±0.01 inWC Ranges ⥠0.5 inWC = ±1.5% inWC Accuracy specifications include: general accuracy, temperature drift, linearity, hysteresis, long term stability, and repetition error
Thermal Effects Temperature compensated across the full spectrum of capability
Overpressure Proof Pressure: 100 inWC Burst Pressure: 120 inWC
Zero Point Calibration Automatic with function or Manual push-button Auto-Zero
Response Time 4.0 â 0.8 sec, Selectable via Jumper
Technical Specifications Media Compatibility Dry air or non-aggressive gases
Measuring Units (select via Jumper) Pa, kPa, mbar, inWC, mmWC Measuring Element Piezoresistive
Environment: Operating Temperature: 14 â122°F (-10 â 50°C) Storage Temperature: -4 â158°F (-20 â 70°C) Humidity: 0 to 95 % rH, non condensing
Physical Case Dimensions: 3.54â x 3.74â x 1.4â (90.0 x 95.0 x 36.0 mm) Weight: 5.3 oz (150 g) Mounting: 2 each 0.1875â (4.3 mm) screw holes, one slotted Materials: Case: ABS (UL 94 V-0 Approved) Lid: PC (UL 94 V-1 Approved) Protection standard: IP54 / NEMA3
Display (optional) 3 1/2 Digit LCD Backlit Display 2-Line Display (12 character/line) Size: 1.81â W x 0.57â H (46.0 x 14.5 mm)
Electrical connections: 4 screw terminal block Wire: 12-24AWG (0.2 â 1.5 mm2
Cable Entry Strain Relief: M16 Knockout à : 0.625â (16mm)
Pressure Fittings 3/16â Ã (5.2mm) barbed brass + High pressure â Low pressure
Electrical Voltage Circuit: 3-wire ([V Out], 24V, GND) Input: 24VAC or VDC, ±10% Output: 0-10V or 0-5V, selectable via Jumper Power Consumption: <1.0W Resistance Minimum: 1kΩ
Current Circuit: 3-wire (mA Out, 24V, GND) Input: 24VAC or VDC, ±10% Output: 4
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Sept. 30, 2006
The Lipscomb Bisons tennis team's trip to the University of Tennessee at Martin Friday was anything but enjoyable.
The Bisons lost the match 6-1.
The only singles victory for the Bisons was Mike Sherman who played in the No. 1 spot and beat Stephan Brower by scores of 6-2, 2-6 and 6-3.
Rounding out the singles matches were:
David Carillo lost to Alfredo Krywacz, 6-2, 6-2
Daniel Hangstefer lost to Andrey Yesipov, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2
Colten Jones lost to Chris Slabbert, 6-3, 6-7, 10-8
Andy Mizell lost to Will Taylor, 6-3, 6-4
Daniel Carrillo lost to Petr Markov, 6-1, 7-6, 7-5
In doubles the team of Jeff West and Mizell won the only match for the Bisons playing in the No. 3 spot. They beat Slabbert and Markov 8-5.
In the No. 1 doubles match Sherman and Jones lost to Brower and Krywacz 8-6. In the No. 2 doubles match Hangstefer and David Carrillo lost to Yesipov and Taylor by a score of 8-2.


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"With the logistics and freight forwarding industry in the midst of economic challenges, this may be the perfect time to assess company business processes and consider implementing newer and leaner operating systems that will provide ongoing benefits." –Lisa Tree, marketing manager for CargoWise edi, Chicago, IL
Probably about the last thing any trucker or other logistics provider wants to even consider spending money on right now is anything information technology (IT) related. I mean, come on – it's tough enough to survive as it is, so one must husband precious cash for things like salaries, fuel, equipment; the stuff that fuels the core needs of a freight business.
Not so fast, says Lisa Tree, marketing manager for CargoWise edi, a provider of integrated international supply chain logistics management systems based in Chicago, IL. Sure, now, her company has a vested interest in getting freight haulers to spend money on IT, but to her mind, there's much more to it when it comes to investing in IT.
"While many freight forwarding executives view the current economic conditions as an imprudent time to expend capital in implementing new business functions, this can, in fact, be the perfect time to conduct a thorough evaluation of current business processes and systems to maximize economic performance in the long-term," she explains.
"Typically, when business is slow, company management has more time to evaluate how they are conducting business in the current market environment and consider options available to them that can help them to not only weather the storm, but better position themselves to meet future expansion requirements for when the economy rebounds," Tree says. "Optimizing their business practices and systems now can influence the degree to which they maintain or gain a future competitive advantage."
One area that is often overlooked during economic downturns due to perceived capital outlays is IT optimization, Tree points out. While she acknowledges that today's current economic conditions may not be suitable for large capital expenditures, and loans may be difficult to obtain, monthly licensing options (ODPL) provided by enterprise service providers can require minimal cash outlays to implement new IT enterprise systems. She points out that implementing an integrated IT system is one area frequently overlooked by company management that can have both immediate and long-term benefits with very little capital outlay.
"If freight [companies] are uncertain how to get a feel for market conditions and exactly what their IT needs are to optimize their own freight forwarding process, they can turn to a software service provider for assistance," she says. "Some software service providers offer consulting services to help forwarders and shippers evaluate solutions for the most efficient and cost effective enterprise system with maximum results. This is always a good place to start and can often reap significant lasting benefits."
Slow economies not only free up management time, but often provide increased time and IT personnel availability to assess company software requirements and more carefully focus on the most effective IT-based operating platform that best fits the company's supply chain requirements in both the short-term and long-term.
"Weak or slow economic conditions can provide the needed window of opportunity management and IT staffs need to carefully analyze the best manner in which to implement operational technologies that can provide IT optimization platforms across extended supply chains," Tree believes. "Most companies will find that establishing a single, robust cross-departmental IT solution across all business functions within an enterprise can play a significant role in minimizing the degree of economic risk a company absorbs in unstable economic times. It will also improve ROI [return on investment] performance and long-term growth."
Tree also emphasizes that it is during these times of introspect that IT staffs have the time and ability to focus not only on the implementation of new software systems and enhancements, but for the proper training of all personnel that will be using any new enterprise system.
"Companies can undertake IT training programs that are best-suited to their personnel and financial needs. Some will opt for on-site training, while others may select remote or self-training programs, or a combination of all three options," she says. "The point is, with more time to analyze supply chain and IT needs, forwarders can tailor their training programs to fit their budgets and operational requirements."
In the end, Tree offers this suggestion: rather than simply maintaining the status quo in these times, working closely with an enterprise solution provider, freight companies can gain valuable insights through consultation into what IT operating solutions can consistently enable them to maximize economic performance through all types of market conditions, while lessening economic risk regardless of market conditions.
"These economic conditions will eventually level out and return to normal," she says. "In the meantime, freight forwarding management should view this economic climate as a real opportunity to step back and determine how it can help to cost-effectively improve their business practices with robust IT-based systems that optimize their operating performance in the long-term."
Whether you agree with her view or not, Tree certainly makes the case on one important time – a downturn is a good time to give your business a complete overhaul, from top to bottom, so it's primed and ready when freight volumes return.


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Why See Happy Together Tour?
The Happiest Concert In The US celebrates 10 YEARS on TOur!
The Happy Together tour heads out once again to celebrate its 10th anniversary with the biggest line-up of 60s groups yet! Topping the bill are The Turtles, whose iconic 1967 number one hit 'Happy Together' gives this tour its name. Led by vocalists Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman, their other best songs include 'She'd Rather Be With Me' and 'You Know What I Mean'. They're joined by other stalwarts of the decade such as The Association ('Along Comes Mary', 'Windy') and The Cowsills ('The Rain, The Park & Other Things').
The complete line-up for the Happy Together Tour is The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron formerly Of Three Dog Night, The Association, The Cowsills, the Buckinghams, the Classics IV, and Gary Puckett & The Union Gap.
Additional Information
Performance date: 12 July 2019
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Mongolian languages, one of three subfamilies of the Altaic language family. The Mongolian languages are spoken in Mongolia and adjacent parts of east-central Asia. Their subclassification is controversial, and no one scheme has won universal approval. The central Mongolian languages are usually divided into a western group, consisting of the closely related Oirat (spoken in Mongolia and in the Xinjiang region of China) and Kalmyk (Russia), and an eastern group, consisting of the closely related Buryat (Russia) and Mongol (Mongolia and China) languages. Outlying languages—Moghol (spoken in Afghanistan), Daur (Inner Mongolia, China), Yellow Uighur (Gansu province, China), and the related groups of Monguor (Tu), Dongxiang, and Bao'an (Bonan), which are spoken on the border between the provinces of Gansu and Qinghai—exhibit archaic features. All of the central, but none of the outlying, languages have written forms.
The history of the Mongolian language, both spoken and written, consists of three periods. The divisions of the spoken language are Old, or Ancient, Mongolian (through the 12th century), Middle Mongolian (13th–16th centuries), and New, or Modern, Mongolian (17th century to the present). Old Mongolian is reconstructed from borrowings in other languages and by comparison of the recorded Mongolian languages. The Mongolian vertical script language developed at the end of the 12th century; the oldest extant text dates from roughly 1225. The Pre-Classical period of the written language corresponds to Middle Mongolian. This language is slightly more archaic than the contemporary Middle Mongolian recorded in Chinese transcription in the Secret History of the Mongols (c. 1240) and in other texts and glosses in the Chinese, 'Phags-pa, Persian, and Latin scripts. The conversion of the Mongols to Buddhism (c. 1575) ushered in the Classical period (17th and early 18th centuries) of translation of scriptural texts from Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Chinese, and this period corresponds to the commencement of the Modern period of the spoken language. Not until the 19th century did features of contemporary spoken Mongolian languages begin to appear in Mongolian texts.
With the translation of Buddhistic texts, Mongolian received a large number of Sanskrit, Chinese, Tibetan, and Uighur terms, including not only technical religious words but also personal names and astronomical and calendrical terms.
At the end of the Ancient Mongolian period, the Mongolian language began to spread from its original homeland, and, during the Middle Mongolian period, various dialects began to develop into separate languages. The outlying languages—which today survive as Moghol in Afghanistan; Daur in the east; and Monguor (Tu), Bao'an (Bonan), and Santa (Dongxiang) in the south—were isolated from the main body of Mongolian languages when the tide of Mongol conquest receded. These languages diverged from the main group of Mongolian dialects and to this day retain archaic features characteristic of Middle Mongolian that have been lost in other Mongolian languages; e.g., many retain /f/ and /h/ from Proto-Altaic */p/ (an asterisk identifies a sound as a hypothetical, reconstructed form), as well as unassimilated vowel sequences. An example of the latter phenomenon is Middle Mongolian e'ü (which in Classical Mongolian contained a medial velar, egü), where other languages have merged the vowels into a single, long vowel (thus ṻ).
The Moghol language has been reported to be spoken by no more than 200 elderly people of a few thousand ethnic Moghols living near Herāt in Afghanistan. It is unique in preserving the high back unrounded vowel /ɯ/. Unlike some of the other outlying languages, it has lost Proto-Altaic */p/, but it preserves some unassimilated vowel sequences. The phonology and syntax of Moghol have been affected by Persian, and it has borrowed a large number of words from that language, including some function words. Like Daur, it is not closely related to any other extant Mongolian language.
Daur is spoken in several places in the northeastern portion of Inner Mongolia. It preserves some unassimilated vowel sequences, and one dialect preserves /h/. It is unique in preserving a complete set of forms of the old verb a- 'to be' and in preserving complete sets of forms for both inclusive and exclusive 'we'. Some Daur speakers used Manchu as their written language, and the influence of Manchu on Daur vocabulary and grammar led some to misclassify it as a Manchu-Tungus language.
Other outlying languages
There is no general agreement concerning relationships within the southern group of Mongolian languages. Monguor (Tu), Bao'an, and Santa are spoken in isolated communities within a compact area on the border between the Chinese provinces of Gansu and Qinghai. Monguor is similar enough to Bao'an that the latter has sometimes been considered a Monguor dialect. Santa, spoken just east of Bao'an, is less similar. Yellow Uighur (also called Shera Yögur, Jegün Uighur, East Yogur, among other names) is spoken in the north of Gansu proper. It is not to be confused with the Yellow Uighur (Sarö, or Sarig, Uighur, or Yugur, West Yugar) that is a Turkic language; the speakers of the two languages have sometimes been confusingly lumped together. Several other names of dialects or languages (e.g., Aragwa, Sanquan, Shirongol) were mistakenly reported or identified by scholars.
The southern group of Mongolian languages generally preserve unassimilated vowel sequences and retain /h/; in Monguor, Bao'an, and Santa, the earlier stage, /f/, occurs as well. Unlike other Mongolian languages, Monguor, Bao'an, and Yellow Uighur have stress on the last syllable, with loss or weakening of some initial syllables.
The Eastern and Western groups
The split between Eastern Mongolian (Khalkha, Buryat, and the dialects of Inner Mongolia) and Western Mongolian (Oirat and Kalmyk) occurred at a later stage than that between the peripheral, archaizing languages and the central group. So many features—the loss of initial /h/, reduction of vowel sequences to long vowels, development of rounded vowels in noninitial syllables, assimilation of /i/ to the vowel of the next syllable, and so on—are shared by the Eastern and Western groups that most contemporary linguists no longer consider the east-west split the primary division in the genealogy of the Mongolian languages. Eastern and Western Mongolian languages differ primarily in regard to a few relatively recent innovations, such as the development of labial harmony in the Eastern group. For example, where Khalkha rounds a to o following o, as in mor'or 'by horse,' Kalmyk retains a in the ending -ar.
The terms Oirat (not to be confused with Oirot [Altai], a Turkic language) and Kalmyk have been used in various ways, sometimes as synonyms. Historically, this Mongol group lived west of Lake Baikal, in southeastern Siberia. Subsequently they spread to Dzungaria (now in China's Xinjiang autonomous region). In the early 17th century a portion of the Dzungarian Kalmyk migrated and established a kingdom on the Volga, near the Caspian Sea. When, in 1771, these people returned east to the Ili River valley in Dzungaria, a portion were unable to leave; the descendants of those who remained (the only Mongolian-speaking people of Europe) are called Kalmyk, though the Ili Oirat are also referred to as Kalmyk by some. After World War II Stalin exiled the entire Kalmyk group to Siberia for alleged collaboration with the Germans, but in 1957 they were restored to Kalmykia.
Linguistically speaking, the designation Kalmyk refers to the Cyrillic written language of the European Mongols and their spoken dialects, while the designation Oirat refers to the vertical script language and its associated dialects in Asia. Spoken Oirat so defined is, however, little differentiated from Kalmyk as a spoken language, save in vocabulary.
The separate political and cultural histories of the east-central Mongolian peoples (the Buryat were conquered by the Russians in the mid-17th century and Inner Mongolia by the Manchu; the Manchu did not conquer Outer Mongolia until a half century later; Outer but not Inner Mongolia obtained independence from China in the 20th century) are reflected in their choices of script and in their distinctive vocabularies, and they justify reference to separate Buryat and Mongol languages, as well as, perhaps, to Inner and Outer (Khalkha) Mongolian, though the closely related spoken dialects hardly warrant such distinctions.
Buryat differs from Mongol principally in its Russified vocabulary and in a few features of its phonology and morphology, most notably the change of /s/ to /h/ and the development of personal endings on the verb. The spoken languages of Inner and Outer (Khalkha) Mongolia, apart from vocabulary, likewise do not constitute distinct groupings.
Consequently, while all scholars recognize a Mongol or (Eastern) Mongolian spoken language, they disagree on whether or not spoken Buryat is a language distinct from it. Further, although scholars are generally agreed in recognizing at least the following dialects—Chakhar, Darkhan, Ju Uda, Khalkha, Kharchin, Khorchin, Ordos (Urdus), and Ulan Tsab (Urat)—the number of dialects and their allocation to yet larger groupings remain a source of controversy.Robert I. Binnick
Learn More in these related Britannica articles:
Altaic languages: The Mongolian languagesThe names Mongol and Mongolian have both been used for the language group, though most scholars prefer Mongolian; a few use the term Mongolic. Both names have also been used for a variety of historical and contemporary spoken and written languages in China…
China: AltaicMongolian languages are sometimes divided into a western group (including Oirat and Kalmyk) and an eastern group (including Buryat and Mongol), but their subclassification is controversial. Religion is the main unifying force, and most Mongolians profess Tibetan Buddhism.…
Russia: Ethnic groups and languages… group, including Turkic, Manchu-Tungus, and Mongolian; the Uralic group, including Finno-Ugric and Samoyedic; and the Caucasian group, comprising Abkhazo-Adyghian and Nakho-Dagestanian. Because few of the languages of the smaller indigenous minorities are taught in the schools, it is likely that some will disappear.…
Turkic languages: Language contactsMongolian loanwords occur from the 13th century on, notably in varieties of nomadic groups. Interaction with the Mongolian language has been especially strong in such areas as southern Siberia. Turkic and Iranian have interacted closely for many centuries, particularly in Central Asia, leading to a…
Mongolia, country located in north-central Asia. It is roughly oval in shape, measuring 1,486 miles (2,392 km) from west to east and, at its maximum, 782 miles (1,259 km) from north to south. Mongolia's land area is roughly equivalent to that of the countries of western and…
More About Mongolian languages5 references found in Britannica articles
Assorted References
- major reference
- classification
- relation to Turkic languages
- China
- Russia


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Ya'll have my apologies for two Sundays going by without a word. My story is this: my husband and our ISP had a falling out. Believe me, it was with good reason and I fully support what he did, which was to disconnect the service IMMEDIATELY and find a new provider. However, the company he went with is a new company in the area and we had to wait a week for a hook up. Wow... talk about the dark ages! My laptop doesn't operate unless it's plugged in (battery needs to be replaced) and my phone is crappy internet service. Sooo... without warning, I was unplugged and didn't have anything to post while I was out of pocket. Talk about being caught with your pants down! *blush*
My internet is once again up and running, and Slice of Life will continue this Sunday. =) Thanks for hanging in there with me.


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The Latest News
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Distinctive Arrangements for Women's Voices
An exciting new collection of 18 carol
arrangements in new, creative settings suitable for high school and
beyond. Includes carols and processionals for concert or madrigal
dinner use.
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Recent Octavo Releases
from Walton:
The long awaited SSA/piano version of Mashed Potato Love Song
Three new pieces from Roger Dean:
Eve's Confession (SSA/piano), a
great piece for women's choir featuring a truly witty text
Night Song (SA/piano)
My Lord, What a Morning
(SA/piano), an arrangement of the traditional spiritual
I will be at the following performances/events. Email me for more details, and please,
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My Friend Elijah
Peace on Earth... and crickets
Mashed Potato Love Song
Summer's Bounty
Sing Me to Heaven (SSAA)
New Audio Recordings:
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Hush! My Dear, Lie Still and Slumber
is one of
the beautifully recorded selections on this CD "The World's
Desire, Christmas at Loretto" by the South Bend Chamber Singers,
directed by Dr. Nancy Menk
American Choral
Directors Association


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Person of the 'alternative society' bent who would claim a desire to 'smash the system'. Their chosen means of smashing the aforesaid system would be to get really drunk and/or stoned and mouth-off raucously and belligerently to those already aware of our non-working class hero's political ideology, usually to the strains of seriously non-commercial underground sounds.
Revolution from the comfort of one's easy chair.
Revolution from the comfort of one's easy chair.
Andy knew that this government was fucked-up and he knew just what needed to be done; 'seize power! overthrow! Yeah! Class war! Whose turn is it to skin-up then?'
He's just an armchair anarchist.
He's just an armchair anarchist.
by Dogload January 23, 2007


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The Springhill Suites Clearwater, located between the gulf beaches and Tampa Bay. Tamppa International Airport is just 15 minutes away while St. Petersburg - Clearwater International Airport is just around the corner. Our studio suites feature well-defined spaces for relaxing or connecting. Start the day with a "Suite Seasons" hot and healthy breakfast buffet on-site or take a "Grab-n-Go" breakfast bite - it's our treat!
Data is submitted by registered FlightAware members on 2009-Oct-13 09:43.You must register or login to edit FBO information.
Jet A and 100LL airport fuel prices for all FBOs at KPIE


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The Genetics, Genomics & Development Track embraces three complementary disciplines to provide students with a solid foundation of training that will prepare them for careers in some of the most exciting areas of modern biomedical research.
Research and training opportunities within the program include molecular genetics of human disease, genetics of complex disorders, use of genetic animal models, genomics, proteomics, stem cell biology and reproductive and developmental biology.
Elective courses in specialized areas of the track are available including Medical Genetics , Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Genomics and Proteomics, and Animal Models.
Additional electives are available through other graduate school tracks to allow the student to fully enjoy and benefit from multidisciplinary training.
Sunil Ahuja, Medicine/Infectious Diseases - Understanding the role of the chemokine system and other immune molecules in HIV-1 pathogenesis.
Timothy J. Anderson, Genetics, TBRI - Genetics, genomics and evolution of malaria and schistosome parasites of humans.
Nedal Arar, Medicine/Nephrology - Renal Disease.
Yidong Bai, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Mitochondrial, respiratory chain, complex assembly, turnover, copy number control.
Manzoor A. Bhat, - Genetic and Molecular Dissection of Neuron-Glial Interactions in Drosophila and Mice.
Alex Bishop, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Understanding the contribution of different genes to genomic instability and the role of such instability in development, aging and carcinogenesis.
Thomas Boyer, Molecular Medicine - Biochemical, molecular, and cell biological approaches to study the regulation of eukaryotic RNA polymerase II transcription.
Melanie A. Carless, - Our research focuses on identifying epigenetic variation that contributes to the development of various complex diseases and how these changes might influence and interact with genetic variation to propel disease progression.
Yidong Chen, Epidemiology and Biostatistics - Bioinformatics, statistical, and systems biology methods for modeling tumor phenotype, genotype and compound treatment responses.
Jannine Cody, Pediatrics - Understanding the molecular basis, clinical and educational features as well as the natural history of individuals with syndromes of chromosome 18.
Joanne E. Curran, Genetics, TBRI - Our research focuses on dissecting diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease in the general population, to gain an insight into the biological pathways involved in disease pathogenesis.
Patricia Dahia, Medicine / Hematology - Utilization of genomics-based approaches to study the genetics of cancer, to characterize interactions between oncogenic pathways, and to identify novel cancer-related genes.
Bess Frost, Cell Systems & Anatomy
Stephen E. Harris, Periodontics - Bone Morphogenetic Protein and their Expression.
Samy L. Habib, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Research focuses on the molecular mechanisms mediating fibrosis, hypertrophy and apoptosis in diabetic nephropathy, and defining the role of diabetes in the development of renal tumors.
Lorena M. Havill, Genetics, TBRI - We investigate variation in risk of two common aging-related diseases of the skeletal system: Osteoporosis ("fragile bone disease") and osteoarthritis. These disorders are extremely common age-related skeletal diseases, but their causes and the ability to prevent and treat them remain elusive.
Tim Hui-Ming Huang, - He studies cancer epigenetics. He has pioneered the development of high-throughput technologies that are used to investigate molecular interactions between DNA methylation and histone modifications during tumorigenesis.
Syed Z. Imam, Medicine / Inf. Diseases - Understanding the molecular basis of neurodegeneration, which can be implicated to develop therapeutic trials for neurodegenerative diseases.
Teresa Johnson-Pais, Pediatrics - Identification of genetic alterations that play a role in cancer tumorigenesis, especially in urologic cancers. Genetics of Paget's Disease of Bone - Understanding the role of mutant SQSTM1 proteins in familial Paget's Disease of Bone.
David Kadosh, Microbiology / Immunology - Regulation of morphology and virulence in the major human fungal pathogen Candida albicans.
Erzsebet K. Kokovay, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Cellular and molecular mechanisms of neural stem cell regulation, especially those derived from the microenvironment.
Ellen B. Kraig, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Effects of aging and infection on immunity and autoimmunity.
Pamela Larsen, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Understanding the biological mechanisms for the efficient life maintenance, in development and adulthood in C. elegans.
Robin Leach, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Using a molecular genetic approach, we are studying a number of common diseases including prostate and testicular cancer, diabetes, schizophrenia and Paget's disease of the bone.
Sang Lee, Molecular Medicine - Cancer results from genetic and environmental insults leading to the accumulation of mutations in genes preventing the initiation and the progression of this disease.
Donna Lehman, Medicine / Epidemiology - Public health genomics; study of genetics of complex disorders such as diabetes using genetic epidemiologic methods in large family-based and population-based cohorts; Genetic cause of various highly penetrant ophthalmic disorders.
Philip LoVerde, Biochemistry / Pathology - Elucidating molecular mechanisms of schistosome-host interactions by investigating the role of genes and gene products such as those contributing to female reproductive development and those encoding antigens.
John McCarrey, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Mechanisms regulating the development, differentiation and manipulation of germ cells and stem cells in mammals.
Charleen Moore, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Characterizing human cytogenetic abnormalities and carrying out comparative cytogenetics studies in primates and marsupials.
Leslie Myatt, Obstetrics and Gynecology - My lab studies a). the role of the placenta in the developmental origins of health and disease (fetal programming) with a particular focus on the effect of maternal obesity on generation of inflammation and oxidative/nitrative stress and on mitochondrial function in the placenta and b). epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the placenta and in the myometrium.
Susan S. Padalecki, Urology / Cell Systems & Anatomy - Bone is the most common site of metastases for solid tumors such as breast, prostate and bladder cancers. These metastases contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of these cancers.
Dubravko Pavlin, Orthodontics - Regulation of genes for bone cell (osteoblast) markers.
Luiz Penalva, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Dissecting gene expression of tumors and complex tissues with RNA binding proteins.
Alexander Pertsemlidis, Pediatrics and Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute - microRNA regulation of cell viability and drug response in cancer.
Ravi Ranjan, Pharmacology - The genetics of aging in Drosophila and the mechanism of neurotransmitter secretion at the synapse.
Shane L. Rea, Barshop / Physiology - Aging in C. elegans (Mit Mutants; Mitochondrial; Bioenergetics; Metabolomics; DNA Damage); Human Mitochondrial-associated Disorders (S. cerevisiae Models); Type II Diabetes.
Paula Shireman, Surgery - Our lab studies the inflammatory-mediated mechanisms of angiogenesis and skeletal muscle regeneration. We are particularly interested in how hematopoietic stem cells, myogenic stem cells and inflammatory cells interact to form muscle after injury and microRNA regulation of this process. A better understanding of muscle regeneration will be useful in tissue regeneration strategies for limb salvage.
Thomas Slaga, Pharmacology - Glucocorticoid hormones (GC), very potent inhibitors of physiological DNA synthesis in keratinocytes in vivo.
Gail Tomlinson, Pediatrics - Genetic predisposition to cancer, Hepatoblastoma, Hereditary breast cancer, Other Pediatric Tumors, Population-specific aspects of childhood cancer, von Hippel-Lindau disease.
Kristine S. Vogel, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Genomic Instability.
M. Consuelo Walss-Bass, Psychiatry - Role of genetic polymorphisms in risk of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
Christi Walter, Cell Systems & Anatomy - DNA repair, mutagenesis, mitochondria, transgenic mice, aging, spermatogenic cells.
Degeng Wang, Epidemiology and Biostatistics - His lab focuses on understanding the operations of cellular biochemical networks and their aberrancy in cancers, with a current emphasis on cancer metabolism.
Pei Wang, Cell Systems & Anatomy - Her research goals are to identify markers and methods for early diagnosis of Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and to inform the development of effective therapeutic strategies.
P. Renee Yew, Molecular Medicine - Vertebrate cell cycle regulation, DNA replication initiation, Ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and signaling, Tumor suppressor function.


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Get information about how to start your college experience! Learn about financial aid, programs of study, and CBC in general.
College Night is for all high school seniors and their parents. Those who are historically underrepresented (African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian American/Pacific Islander), low income, or who will be first-generation college students (parents did not graduate from college) are encouraged to attend.
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a College Night attendee. Must submit College Night Scholarship Application at College Night to be eligible.
The CBC Foundation Scholarship Application deadline is Feb. 21. For more information, see the Foundation Scholarship page.
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Your challenge is to cover the big red circle
with all the five smaller yellow circles so that no part of the red circle
is visible.
To move a yellow circle just drag it. Note. When you release
a yellow circle while it covers even a little part of the red one, you
won't be able to move that yellow circle anymore. Thus, you have to cover
the red circle with the five releases of the yellow circles only.
Use the Restart button each time you want to start playing the toy from
the initial position again.
*This toy is based on an
attraction that is very popular on the English fairs, where the task is to
cover a round table with the five thin circles.
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Amore Piccolo Necklace – Black
In stock
Grey malachite, matte onyx and faceted black agate gemstones with a rhodium plated micro pavé CZ rondelle finding. Length: 37-38cm
Half the fun of receiving a gift is opening it from its package. This Bowerhaus piece is packaged in our signature grey box and is wrapped in a Amalfi coast printed handkerchief.
All our products are made to order. We add all orders to a schedule and work off a first come basis. We aim to complete orders within 10 business days of payment however when we are inundated with orders (and this happens a lot) it may take more time. We will always email you after your order to let you know where we are at in the workshop. As they say, good things come to those who wait.
Please make sure you have your heart set on your purchases. All our pieces are made to order therefore we do not accept returns or exchanges.


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Shoes.com Insider on Rockport ShoesRockport shoes for men and women are modern crowd-pleasers with a large assortment of comfort and style. If you love comfort as much as style, so does this best-seller, who changed the landscape of comfort footwear by introducing the first dress shoes with built-in sport technology. Rockport footwear offer their customers only the best in fit, technology and comfort.
Still redefining how great everyday shoes can feel, Rockport built a solid reputation from its start in 1971. The brand began in New England like so many others, founded by a father and son, but quickly made a name for itself by pioneering the use of athletic manufacturing in casual shoes. An industry first, Rockport's leather loafers fused Vibram outsoles to its premium upper. The DresSports line in 1983 debuted as the first dress shoe with a sports sole - its success led to more flexible outsoles with more shock-absorbing, scored tread.
The loved label's fitness fits and lightweight designs have carried through to options for every occasion, including women's heels like their Seven To 7 pumps or men's world tour comfort shoes. They joined the adidas family of brands in 2006, ensuring you'll enjoy the latest in sports-infused fashion whether you're rocking Rockport boots, loafers, Oxfords, sandals, or walking shoes with ADIPRENE by Adidas in every shoe they make. Many styles also feature waterproofing - some are even fully washable! Everywhere you go, whatever the weather, you can put some extra spring in your step - and get compliments - thanks to your go-to Rockports.


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February 19, 2014, 7:27 pm
Spot Live: Analyzing the Denver Post GOP gubernatorial debate with Alan Franklin (D) and Kelly Maher (R)
Four of the candidates vying to become Colorado's next governor offered their take on everything from marijuana to taxes on Tuesday night at a Denver Post debate. So, who won? What were the key moments from the debate and do any of them have a shot at unseating Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper in November? Democrat Alan Franklin of ProgressNow and Republican Kelly Maher join Spot Live to discuss.
Follow Kurtis on Twitter: @kurtisalee


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OTTAWA — Canadians must make the protection of their nation's lakes and rivers a top priority, warns former prime minister John Turner.
"Water is crucial. And Canadians ought not to neglect this. It is one of our great assets," he said in an exclusive interview with Postmedia News.
Turner's interest in Canada's water system stretches back decades. As a young MP in the early 1960s, he helped renegotiate the Columbia River Treaty, an agreement between Canada and the United States that governs the operation of dams on water systems that affect both countries.
Now 83, Turner is honorary director of World Wildlife Fund Canada. He has a cottage on Lake of the Woods, a massive body of water in northern Ontario that stretches into Manitoba and the United States.
He recently helped persuade the International Joint Commission to monitor water quality of that lake, and called it just one example of how Canada must work to preserve what he calls this country's "water footprint."
Not only is it a resource that many Canadians with cottages cherish, but Turner has also noted in the past that many companies — from those in the oil sector to lumber — also need water for their own production operations.
"It's our best asset," Turner stressed in the interview. Canada has the third-largest fresh water supply in the world, behind Brazil and Russia.
"We've got to protect it. We've got to watch our American friends on it."
Turner made the comments as part of a Postmedia News project in which all of Canada's six living former prime ministers were interviewed on issues of the day. Turner, who had a lengthy political career in cabinet and the opposition benches, was prime minister in 1984.
Postmedia News asked Turner to comment on six key themes.
1. Canada's challenges on economic management and environmental protection:
Measured against other countries, Canada's economy is well managed, Turner said. Nonetheless, he said, the government should have three goals: Get the deficit under control; bring expenditures in line; and encourage job growth.
"Complicated in its application. Very simple in its statement."
He said Canada should also "encourage" its energy production, particularly in the West, with one caveat: environmental surveillance.
"I'm pro-oilsands but we've got to make sure that we cut down the environmental impact."
2. The state of the political system and public participation:
In the early 1960s, Turner recalls, he gave a speech in which he said: "We had better go back to the days of Magna Carta — 1215, when they liberated Parliament, sent members back to their ridings to be independently elected." Yet in the five decades since the remarks, the parliamentary system has only weakened, he said.
Free votes for MPs in the House of Commons should be standard, Turner said, except for Throne speeches and budgets (though not, he added, the Harper government's sprawling omnibus budget bills that veer into policies that aren't strictly taxation matters).
"Every other vote on pieces of legislation should be left to the intellect and to the emotion of the individual member of Parliament — regardless of party — and their constituents."
Moreover, with a 61 per cent voter turnout in last year's federal election, it's vital Canadians once again participate in their political system, Turner argued.
"We've got to work at it from the grassroots, from the riding up. We've got to get involved again in political parties. All parties."
"Democracy does not happen by accident."
He said it's critical to restore respectability to the role of politicians, stressing that he has always believed that "politics is a vocation, a public service."
"St. Augustine, the great bishop of Carthage in the fourth century said: 'To whom God has given some talent, let him give it back.'"
"Today, let him or her give it back."
3. The state of national unity:
Canadians are "fairly comfortable" with their country right now — "despite our politicians," Turner said. "Basically, the tone of the country is pretty good."
Still, he was concerned about Quebec after this fall's election of the separatist Parti Quebecois.
"The federal government is not strongly represented in Quebec and the government will now have to pay a good deal more attention to what is happening there."
Meanwhile, Turner said the tension building in Western Canada — between British Columbia and Alberta over the proposed Northern Gateway oil pipeline — could be resolved with the right leadership.
Since he knows both premiers, Turner said he believes "I could go out and solve that problem tomorrow with those two provinces.
"I believe under the right encouragement, it could happen. It's an opportunity for the prime minister to intervene."
4. The health-care system:
As a board member of a Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, Turner has a particular interest in the question.
"In international terms, we rank very high," he said of Canada's medicare system. "In terms of the basic fundamentals, we have, I think, a very efficient system."
Still, there are challenges: "Cut down the wait time. Cut down the emergency time. Get things moving faster. Know how to respond to emergencies with more speed and more efficiency and more care."
5. Foreign policy and Canada's relationship with the United States:
Turner recalled an era when he was finance minister and prime minister Pierre Trudeau didn't "get along" with president Richard Nixon. So Turner made trips to Washington every three months to meet his counterpart, George Shultz. Turner and Shultz were usually armed with an agenda cleared by their bosses, Trudeau and Nixon.
"We'd play a couple of sets of tennis on the White House courts, have a couple of scotches, go up and have dinner with the president – Nixon, myself and Schultz."
They would reach agreement on most items and do it not through "bureaucratic overkill" but rather, "on a handshake," said Turner.
"We've got to do more of that with the United States. On a regular basis. On a first-name basis."
When Turner entered politics, his party was led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Lester B. Pearson.
"We were internationally committed," Turner recalled. "The fact that we are no longer on the Security Council of the United Nations is not a good sign. I think we've got to get back into international politics."
6. Canada's single greatest challenge and opportunity:
Turner identified three priorities: Concentrate on economic growth and stability. Encourage national unity. Restore democratic governance to Parliament.
"I'm very optimistic that under the right governance we can reach these achievable goals. There's a bit of political constipation. But in relative terms, we have great opportunities."
email@example.com" _fcksavedurl="mailto: email@example.com" target="_blank">email@example.com
A John Turner snapshot
• Liberal
Prime Minister:
• From June 30, 1984, to Sept. 17, 1984.
Political career:
• First elected an MP in 1962.
• Was consumer affairs minister in the 1960s.
• Held the justice and finance portfolios in the Trudeau government.
• Quit politics in 1975 to work as a Toronto lawyer.
• Won the Liberal leadership in 1984 but lost a federal election three months later.
• Remained in opposition, as Liberal leader, until 1990.
After politics:
• Returned to Toronto to practise law.
• 83
• "Politics is a vocation, a public service."


text:
Stamford softball blanks Ludlowe
FAIRFIELD -- For the first two years of her career as the starting pitcher for the Stamford High School softball team, Christina Joaunou was able to take the mound without worry, knowing she had one of the top offensive teams in the FCIAC supporting her.
That might not change much this spring. After all, the ability to score runs in bunches has always been a trademark of teams coached by Tony Esposito.
But this year, with two freshmen among a host of newcomers to the starting lineup, there's no doubt Joaunou is the one the Black Knights will be leaning on the most.
Apparently, that's exactly the way the senior right-hander likes it.
Unfazed by the newfound weight of responsibility, Joaunou put together one of the finest performances of her career, shutting down a potent Fairfield Ludlowe offense during a 4-0 victory in the season-opener at blustery Sturges Park.
Ludlowe is expected to be one of the top teams in the FCIAC with seven seniors returning from a team that went 15-7 last year, including one of the top hitters in the state in senior third-baseman Brenna Martini.
But Joaunou made Ludlowe look ordinary, scattering six hits with eight strikeouts and no walks to collect the shutout. It was just the type of effort Esposito wanted to see from his new team leader.
"Christina came through for us, big time. She threw one heck of a game," Esposito said. "This was a big game because the ball's in her court now. She came through very nicely. Let's hope it's a sign of things to come."
The matchup was perfect for Joaunou, who relies on location and a great changeup to get outs -- just the type of pitcher Ludlowe struggles against.
"She went high and low. She had a really nice changeup, which is one of our weaknesses," Ludlowe coach Shari Paci said. "She really read our batters well, and I think that's something we're going to be working on."
Stamford, which went 16-4 with an appearance in the Class LL state semifinals last season, scored all the runs it would need in the first inning before Ludlowe junior Brigette Anderson settled into a groove.
Haley Lamotta reached on a one-out error and second-baseman Sarah Stabile followed with a single to left. Shortstop Kelly Dipietro drove in the first run with another single to left and first-baseman Brianna Arias made it 3-0 with a clutch two-out, two-run single to left.
"That was a great help," said Joaunou, who also had a nice drop pitch working well. "We were coming in with a new team with newbies at new postitions everywhere, and they really pulled their weight. I'm really proud of them."
Stamford added an insurance run in the top of the seventh on a bunt single by Nicole Pease, a sacrifice bunt by Arias and an infield error. Anderson allowed just two hits over the final six innings, finishing with four strikeouts and no walks.
Joaunou got herself out of a couple of jams, ending the first inning with a stikeout after allowing hits by Anna Rasmussen and Martini (2-for-3), then doing the same in the third with Gillian Kennedy on third base and again in the fourth after a two-out double by Katie DeCarlo (2-for-3).
But Joaunou was supported by solid defense, including stellar efforts by freshman Maddie Santora at third and sophomore Lauren O'Neill in center. Santora had five assists, including a couple of bunts where she had to field and throw quickly. O'Neill made two nice catches on balls that could have easily fallen for hits on such a windy day, including a diving grab in the second inning.
The Black Knights also thwarted Ludlowe's best chance to score, getting Brittany Romero in a rundown between third and home after two straight hits put runners on second and third.
"Everyone fielded their position today," Esposito said. "We had a freshman at third base stopping everything and making plays at first and Lauren in center. The defense was incredible."
Stamford 4, Ludlowe 0
Batteries: S-- Christina Joaunou (W, 1-0) and Haley Lamotta; L--Brigette Anderson (L, 0-1) and Katie DeCarlo.


text:
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text:
You have the admire Robert Redford. He's had a glittering career but, close to his 80s, refuses to just kick back and live on memories.
These days he has a few cameo roles and occasionally chips in with a solid lead performance.
But these films don't tend to be easy.
Back in 2013 he starred in the super All is Lost which had virtually no dialogue and involved a lot of physical action
A Walk in the Woods isn't an easy role as Redford has to hike through some tough but beautiful countryside and climb various hills.
I first became aware of Redford back in 1969, watching him in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. He was already a star with dashing good looks.
He still looks great and in top physical shape and retains that star quality.
This latest outing for Redford is based on author Bill Bryson's book.
After many years living in the UK, Bryson returned to the USA but did little in the way of writing.
One day he decides to walk the very tough 2,000 mile Appalachian Trail but is badgered by his wife into taking someone with him.
After everyone turns him down an old grizzled and distinctly unfit acquaintance, Stephen Katz, offers to go along.
This buddy/road movie is centred on the trip, during which the pair encounter fierce weather, vicious wildlife and the odd angry husband.
It's a gentle tale full of humour with Redford and Nick Nolte as Katz in great form.
Emma Thompson as Bryson's wife Catherine only has a brief part but is superb and there's a lovely cameo from Mary Steenburgen.
The language is a bit fruity, hence the certificate, but there's much to admire in this movie.
Great acting, superb locations, excellent music and some thoughtful direction from Ken Kwapis add up to a masterful movie.
Film details: A Walk in the Woods (15) 104mins
Director: Ken Kwapis
Starring: Robert Redford, Nick Nolte, Emma Thompson
Screening courtesy of Horsham Capitol
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text:
It isn't just a toy. It's a pop culture icon. The original Castle Grayskull playset from 1982 has lived on well beyond its "playtime" and truly set the standard for what a toy playset should deliver. From the mysterious skull face to the action packaged throne room dungeon trap, how many of us just spent hours and hours of our childhood lugging that bad boy around playing out countless adventures for He-Man and his pals.
(hey mods, if you have it handy, feel free to drop in a link to that great video Pixel Dan did of the vintage castle here! Really hits it home better then I could!)
(Sure thing! -dorrmann)
Until recently I never thought a playset could ever come out that would rival the original Castle. While playsets were a hallmark of the '80s, in recent years (and decades) we have seen decline in "action figure real estate" for a variety of reasons. But those monster sets of the early '80s will always remain lasting icons of an era when muscle-bound warriors ruled the living room, defending freedom and playtime everywhere.
It's no secret that we've wanted the current Masters of the Universe Classics line (available each month on Mattycollector.com!) to become the greatest MOTU line of all time (if not one of the greatest toy lines of all time). Putting out any MOTU line that could even challenge the original is an endeavor unto itself.
But over the last 4 or 5 years, the MOTUC team has really stepped up to the plate and created some of the coolest, most amazing adult collector figures ever made. We've covered people, beasts, gorillas, giant dragons and even flying boats. But we haven't yet gotten to the center piece of them all. The playset.
Well, now the time has come. Fan demand helped it happen, the Hoverboard pre-order sale made it plausible. And now if we hit our minimum order by November 12th, the MOTU fans will do what no other fan base for any toy line has been able to prove- that they ARE big enough to support large playsets and want to see these happen!
We've had our presale up for about two weeks now and are getting close. But we can't close the gap without your help. If you are on the fence about whether or not to buy a Castle Grayskull, let me see if I can talk you over to our side of the yard.
A lot of folks have looked at not just the price, but the actual footprint of the Castle and wondered "where am I even going to put that?" Well, you've got a lot of options. We did design the Castle to display as many figures as possible, even adding a third level across the top to attack or defend from below. Some fans have noted they really only want a "Castle façade" to use as a backdrop. If you only want a one-sided façade as a backdrop, simply only assemble the front half of the Castle. Just like the vintage set, our new MOTUC Castle Grayskull swings open and closed. If you have limited shelf space or only want the front side behind your collection, you can simply detach the back half (just like the vintage set) and display only the front half!
But there is another factor to consider.
As a collector myself, I know how valuable "shelf space" is. And finding room for a full Castle Grayskull in your current toy room or man cave (or woman cave!) is often challenging. One thing I would throw out there from my good friends on the Back to the Future brand is to think about this playset "fourth dimensionally."
This Castle Grayskull isn't just for now. It isn't just for tomorrow or even next week. This Castle Grayskull is for the next 30 years.
It really isn't every day or even every decade that Mattel can offer a MOTU playset. This is a rare thing. (Heck, quite literally, this is only the third Castle in 30 years, so I guess that means we've done one a decade at this rate, right?)
But this one is different. This is CLASSICS Castle Grayskull.
This is the one we have all waited for. It is in scale with our 6" figures and chock full of every detail, crammed with accessories, and ideally will be sculpted to perfection soon (once we hit that minimum number of pre-orders on Nov 12th!). And for those a little unsure, it does include ALL of the items shown in the blueprints. We hope to add more, but there won't be less.
This is the playset "designed to last" for the adult collector. The chance of doing this again or offering anything like this in another way is pretty slim, especially if this one doesn't go through. Ever since Classics debuted 5 years ago, fans have been asking for this centerpiece. Now is the time.
If you are on the fence, as both the brand manager for MOTU and a fan, I suggest it is time to get off and support this playset. It truly is in the fans' hands. We can't make this playset without you. We all want this. We've been asking for it for years. Mattel finally found a way to make it happen, but it can only go forward with your support.
You may not have the room to display the Castle today. Personally, I own thousands of toys and for the most part they are in large rubber bins in storage. I simply don't have room to display everything I own or even want to (especially with a 2 ½ year old at home – small parts and all…). But even before I was lucky enough to land a gig at Mattel as a professional collector (if you will), I've always viewed my collection as "one day." "One day" I know I will be successful enough and have a big enough place to display all my toys, including the proper space for this castle.
But the Castle Grayskull pre-order is now.
Even if you think you lack the proper display space for the Castle right now, keep in mind this playset not only is a bit of a one-time offer, but more importantly, it is going to last. Twenty years from now, even thirty years from now, hopefully we'll all be looking over our MOTUC collections with joy. Whether or not we're still offering new monthly figures or not isn't the key. They key is that even after figures stop coming out, your collection is permanent. You'll have it as long as you collect. And seriously, who doesn't want Castle Grayskull to be the centerpiece of that collection?! Years from now, do you not want to have this castle there with all your figures? How incomplete will your collection look if this Castle is missing? Preordering the Castle isn't just about 2012 or 2013 but for the life of your collection for as long as you want to keep MOTU on display. Years from now, with a "complete" figure set, this playset will be the centerpiece of any collection. Whether you display everything now, or one day intend to have an amazing shelf (shelves?) full of MOTUC toys, this is the time to lock in your Castle Grayskull. This castle isn't just to display now but to reign proudly over all your toys for decades to come. This playset is going to look amazing. It is going to be everything we all want a Classics Castle to be.
Please help us make this happen. Help your fellow He-Fans make this happen. Offering a 6" scale Castle Grayskull really is a turning point in all of toy collecting. This playset truly could go on to become one of (if not THE) greatest toy made. Think of how iconic the vintage playset still is 30 years later.
Now think of that powered by the detail, paint, sculpting and passion of the Classics line. This is going to be one heck of a toy. It's the one that will make all your friends jealous, not just for years, but for decades to come. Opportunities like this don't come around that often and now is the time. Let's make this happen.
We have the power!
PS: We are still working on the packaging but hope to have Rudy do another amazing new illustration on what will be a closed box. If we do move forward, one thing we want to do is let fans vote on which 5 good guys and which 5 bad guys will be attacking/defending the Castle on the box front illustration. We hope to involve fans as much as possible along the way but we need to hit that minimum order quota first. So if you are on the fence, now is the time to come on board!


text:
Dr. Kathryn Flanagan
Dr. Kathryn Flanagan is the Deputy Director of the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Md. She served as a Senior Scientist and head of the Mission Office for the James Webb Space Telescope from 2007 to 2012. In that capacity she was responsible for the development and operations of the Science and Operations Center for this NASA mission. She earned her bachelor's degree and Ph.D. in physics at MIT, where she began working in the field of X-ray astronomy, with special interest in supernova remnants and the development of new instruments in space. She became part of the science research staff at Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and MIT, and has worked on flight instruments for the Einstein Observatory, the Chandra X-ray Observatory, and the future International X-ray Observatory. She has been active in education, first as a Peace Corps volunteer teaching math and physics in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and later as the Director for Education and Public Outreach for MIT's Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research. She has participated in NASA's advisory structure, co-chaired strategic planning documents, and served on the Astrophysics Subcommittee. She has also served as a member of the National Academy of Sciences and Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal Survey. She was appointed Deputy Director of the STScI in 2012.
Photo Credit: R. Diaz (STScI)