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Rukia Publishing features John Searancke
Author profile by John Searancke
I was born in 1943 at Derby Royal Infirmary, a war baby, and for the first 18 years of my life my home was in Ashby de la Zouch, an old market town in Leicestershire. I was sent away to become a boarder at Kings Mead Preparatory School, Seaford, and then Rugby School. Having been at Rugby has certainly stood me in good stead throughout my life, and I could not have asked for better.
I am still not quite sure exactly how it came about (perhaps because my maternal grandfather was a solicitor) but I suddenly found myself articled to a firm of solicitors in Ashby. It was not a happy period for anyone concerned, although I have to concede that I learned a lot during my time there, but it was clear that I was too much of a free spirit to enjoy being chained to a desk for a pittance each week. The only highlights to my miserable years as a bookworm were trips out to criminal courts or prisons. I must have been to every prison in the Midlands.
Concurrently, I was commissioned into the Territorial Army and still proudly display my certificate signed by HM The Queen.
When my parent's marriage began to founder, I relocated to West Sussex to help out at their latest venture, a country hotel. My few weeks' offer of help (neither of my parents having even the slightest knowledge of, or interest in, the hotel industry) turned into some 35 years, with me taking over from them, changing and extending the place considerably along the way. My restaurant in the hotel held 2 AA Rosettes for food for a number of years right up until I sold the business.
My son Marcus, my pride and joy, was born in St. Richards Hospital, Chichester. As I write this, he has turned 41, and he is an accountant. Married to Tina, they have provided me with two lovely grandchildren, Josh and Sam.
After I sold my hotel I moved up to Lancashire, where I had met and later married Sally. We started a new business together, a commercial legal services company, something completely new for both of us. During that time we encountered a puppy, Freddie, a Jack Russell/Staffie cross, who we "rescued" from the RSPCA and fell in love with.
We sold out on a high after some 10 years, enabling us to seriously consider the move to Tenerife. With nothing to hold us back, we made the life-changing move, and have not regretted it. Did I think that retirement would be relaxation in the sunshine? Far from it! I think that I have never been so busy, and the latest of my activities is becoming restaurant reviewer for the main Canary Islands newspaper. I was flattered to have been invited to the position. Our exploits in Tenerife with Freddie form the backbone of the stories in my first book.
My second book is an entirely different proposition, a different genre, and written in a completely different style. When a cache of letters, written by my father to my mother during the years of World War 2 eventually came in to my possession, I concluded that I should share some of them with a wider audience. In between a selection of those letters is traced the story of his life over those five long war years. It fascinated me to learn of the day to day life of an enlisted man – and later officer – as the war progressed to its inevitable conclusion, though finally without him as he languished behind the wire in a POW camp in Germany after having been captured on the battlefields of Normandy. And so his story has finally been written and my second book has now made it into print.
Welcome to Rukia Publishing John and thank you for a great introduction. We have a lot to talk about so let's get started with your interview!
How long have you been a writer and how did you come to writing?
I started writing Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands about 2 years ago, and the whole process, from first word on paper to publication out to the books trade, took about 10 months. I was lucky enough to receive a contract from a "traditional" publisher, but the terms were arduous and, upon advice, I rejected it.
I had always wanted to write a book, (does not everyone, secretly?) and the opportunity finally came along when we retired and sold our business, giving me the time.
What are the best and the worst aspects of writing?
For me, there are no worst aspects of actually writing! I enjoyed the process thoroughly. The best is to finally hold in your hand the result of all your hard work; the finished product. I hate being involved in the marketing and publicity, though.
What inspires you to write?
The idea of a story that just needs to get out, to be worthwhile, and hopefully which may receive some praise in certain quarters. Decent book sales help, too!
Who or what has had the greatest influence on your writing and why?
My wife and my dog for the first book, and my father for the second. Looking out at El Teide, that huge volcano which is visible from our terrace, is an awesome incentive, too!
Can you tell us about your books?
Yes. Please see the two following synopses:
Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands:
Determined to leave a life at the grindstone in grimy and wet Lancashire as retirement beckons, John, his wife Sally and their beloved foundling Freddie, a Jack Russell/Staffie cross, embark on the journey of a lifetime to relocate and live on the sunny island of Tenerife in the Canary Isles.
Selling up, they make the move to the north of the island, that part almost unknown to the casual tourist – their very own hidden Tenerife, almost a world away from the much maligned tourist trap of the south of the island. Life in the north is relaxed, and they are surrounded by stunning views on the beautiful northern coast, where their new home is set amidst orange groves and banana plantations, their garden alive with hibiscus, oleander and wild poinsettias, and from their balcony they can see the island's volcano, El Teide, capped by snow in winter. Best of all, the weather is fantastic, the temperature idyllic, the people so friendly, and the cost of living outrageously low.
We learn the idiosyncracies of buying a new home and car on the island, sorting out the legalities and integrating into the local community, interspersed with the stories of doggy derring-do and new canine friends. With a trip all the way through mainland Spain in an old classic car, adventures in far-flung places and visits to many out of the way restaurants, the question remains – can they stand the pace of this tranquil island life?
Prunes for Breakfast:
Another war memoir? Well, yes, and for a very good reason. It could not be told before, until personal papers and photographs were made available to the Author. This is the story of my mother and father, told mostly from the side of my father, from the time of his calling up in early 1940 to his release from a prisoner of war camp in Germany in 1945, thence to return to England to try to pick up the pieces of his old life. Nothing could ever be quite the same afterwards, but travel through those 5 years, learning of the ups and downs, the plots and counterplots, as my father rose through the ranks to end his war as a captain, elevated to that rank in the field as his troops faced the formidable might of the SS Panzers, and where his battle came to an abrupt end, surrounded in an orchard by the enemy and captured after a series of bloody skirmishes as the British army spearheaded its way from the beaches, through the bocage of Normandy, aiming for the liberation of Paris and then the final conquest of Germany. Such was the fighting that a VC was won that day, the action taking place in plain sight. His journey across France and Germany in a truck, with comrades dying each day, is as hard to tell as it may be to read, particularly when a new life and new harsh rules had to be learned and rigidly enforced in a prison camp in northern Germany, his final destination. Not all was doom and gloom however, because, for example, who else would order a new car whilst in that German prison camp, so certain that he would be home in time to take delivery? The story is full of uplifting moments and may possibly be the first time that an individual's war story has been told in such a homespun and ordinary manner, complete with extracts of letters that passed between husband and wife over those 5 long years, adding greatly to the poignancy of the telling of the tale.
Are reader reviews important to you?
They are vital. So far I have been lucky to gather mostly 5 star reviews. Strangely, I have not been upset by a less than excellent review. I thought that I would take it all personally, but unlikely though it may seem, I have managed to rise above it. I feel that I have learned something from all reviews.
Do you have a writing schedule? How often do you write?
I try to write every day, in the morning, for about 3 hours. Sometimes in the afternoon too, and occasionally all day when there is a deadline approaching. Summer afternoons are for swimming.
What does your perfect writing environment look like?
Sadly, I do not have one. It consists merely of the dining room table. Inspiration comes from staring at a blank wall rather than a wonderful view.
For my first book? I suppose Canary Islanders, ex-pats, dog lovers, classic car owners and anyone thinking of the mechanics, pitfalls and pleasures of retirement to another country. A dose of humour injected into the manuscript helps.
For my second book? I have deliberately not written it as just another war book, but used a lighter vein to hopefully draw in younger readers who may learn of the tragedy of that war and its impact on their country. And, of course, for those of a certain age whose personal memories may be stirred by being drawn back to the harrowing times on WW2. It has been a cathartic journey for me as my father and I were not close.
Do you have any blogs/websites?
I have never blogged; I would have no idea what to do! However, I do appear in the blog of my fantastic Editor, Jennifer Barclay (Jennifer Barclay Books). She kindly features me at http://jennifer-barclay.blogspot.gr/2015/10/prunes-for-breakfast-one-mans-war.html, in respect of my second book, Prunes for Breakfast, and you can also find a blog about my first book, Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands, on the same site. I also know a nice lady in Wales from Rukia Publishing…
My website is www.johnsearancke.com
What marketing tools do you utilize and how do you rate their effectiveness?
For my first book I used the marketing services of Troubador Publishing who published my book Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands. They in turn appointed Star Book Sales and Orca (Retail Trade distribution) to make an impact. Frankly, I did better myself.
For my second book, Prunes for Breakfast, I am still with Troubador, but am not bothering with Star and Orca. I am going to do more online, and prior to its release, I have already got a national radio interview fixed for November, and a book launch too, in the same month. A rival Canary Islands newspaper has just offered a full page interview and promotion for Prunes for Breakfast.
Online media – a new thing for me – has proved to be a revelation. I have received a lot of praise, and made a lot of new friends. If I had to single one out, it would be WLM.
And, of course, there is that lady in Wales…
What is your advice to new writers?
Just go for it, but be sure to turn in a polished performance. That means finding and using the best Editor that you can afford, and follow up with a copy-edit too. Both do different things. You need to actually get on with your Editor, otherwise there can be big falling-outs if you take things too personally. Of course, a decent Publisher helps, to create and put together a viable package.
The other crucial thing is to create a proper professional front cover for your book. I used John Harding Illustrator at www.johnharding.net who responded to my brief magnificently for both books. The covers are completely different as befits different genres.
Who are your favourite authors and what book are you currently reading?
Other than peoples memoirs I enjoy Bernard Cornwell, Lee Child (I am a Jack Reacher fan), Dumas (I have the complete set of an early edition), Stendhal. I have just finished a Jeffrey Archer novel, part four of The Clifton Chronicles. Archer is a master storyteller.
What would your friends say is your best quality?
After a straw poll, I am told that would be my kindness and my tenacity.
What do you do when you are not writing?
Wine, classic cars, family. Not necessarily in that order! I also write regular restaurant reviews for Island Connections, the premier English language newspaper in the Canary Islands, so we have to eat out often. I am fortunate to have the pleasure of the company of a tolerant and wonderful wife. I also am on the panel of an independent UK publisher as one of their reviewers.
Are you working on any other books at the moment?
My wife has forbidden me to start my next book, although I know what it is to be about. I am hopeful that she may relent in due course.
If you could share one thing about yourself that you would like readers
to know what would it be?
Apart from my very first job, articled to a firm of solicitors, I have always been self- employed. To be entrepreneurial was the only way for me – sink or swim. Fortunately, I have been lucky enough to have enjoyed a lot of swimming! I cannot envisage having a "normal" job, and I am probably unemployable anyway.
Thank you again John, it has been a pleasure speaking with you!
Thank you Sarah! I have a few bits of my stories to share, please enjoy them.
Here is a copy of a review of Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands that appeared in Tenerife News, together with a chapter extract sandwiched in between:
A new book about moving to Tenerife? Well, yes, but here is one with a big difference.
John and Sally Searancke decided a few years ago to leave cold and wet Lancashire for the sunnier climes of our fair island, bringing with them their dog, Freddie, an RSPCA crossbreed. John's book is called DOG DAYS IN THE FORTUNATE ISLANDS, which in itself is a subtle double take on the first part, whilst the second part brings in the old name for our archipelago. The book is a "snapshot" of the first three years of their life here, and deals with the problems that they faced with bureaucracy, integration into the Spanish way of life, a raft of adventures with Freddie as he meets new canine friends and last but not least the purchase of an old classic Mercedes convertible which they drove from the English Midlands to Puerto de la Cruz, with many adventures in between.
This is a book about which professional reviewers have said...It made me chuckle and highlighted all the pitfalls we might encounter…A 5 Star Serendipitous Adventure!...Perfect for anyone moving to Tenerife…Excellent book covering the "Spanish" part of Tenerife and the wonderful way of life. A very good read! What an insight into the glorious life experienced by the author John, his wife and of course Freddie the dog...
Assuredly there is something in it to give everyone a good read, whether your interest is as a tourist to Tenerife, a traveller, a classic car enthusiast, or just plainly in love with dogs, as both Sally and John clearly are. John has written in a wry and whimsical style that we guarantee will have you laughing out loud.
Here at Tenerife News we laughed and giggled our way through the book, and this is an excerpt which we thought illustrates perfectly one of his several storylines:
The phone rang one lunchtime. It was (a friend) Peter.
"I am taking the dogs out a bit later on, when it gets cooler. Would you like to come? We can go up into the hills and you will see a bit of Tenerife that perhaps you have not yet seen. Oh, and I have another dog staying with me at the moment, Tia, she is so sweet. Come round and we can all pack in together."
"Great! Sounds fun. We'd love to come along."
Off we went to his house to meet up with them all. Three humans, two immense poodles and a medium sized dog; all packed like sardines into his small van-with-windows.
Peter bowled along, the van beginning to wheeze as it attempted the steep gradients towards the mountains, and, quite a distance up into the foothills, we dived off without warning to the right along a completely unmade track. I started thinking about tyres and the inevitable damage that must be caused by travelling over such a rough and sharp surface. However, my thoughts moved on rather quickly to the entire underneath of the vehicle, because it was taking the most terrible pounding from almost man-sized boulders casually strewn across our path, perchance by giants of old. You couldn't hear anyone speak for the din of rock pounding on the chassis. The dogs went into what I assumed was a catatonic trance. Sally blanched.
"No problem. Don't worry at all." shouted Peter through the din, while rather unnervingly facing almost backwards to chat to us. "We've been up here before, lots of times. Well, perhaps not quite so far up, though." he added as an afterthought.
Higher and higher we went, past clearings and fire breaks, and eventually the track widened and we popped out into an open area in which lay the vestigial remains of a picnic area, possibly last camped in by Neanderthal man.
We pulled to a halt, and everyone tumbled out, gasping for breath. It certainly was much cooler right up there, and that was very welcome after the game of sardines enacted out over the last hour. We stretched our legs. The poodles did the same, more literally, by flying off over the nearest horizon.
"No problem," says Peter. "They'll be back in a bit when they have let off steam."
We wandered about, admiring the scenery. El Teide definitely looked a lot closer from where we stood. And the snow on top of it was having a definite effect on the temperature.
"How long does this steam-letting-off generally take?" I eventually asked.
"Oh, anything up to half an hour or so."
And so we waited, and waited. We wandered to and fro, feeling the chill in the air, raising goose pimples on our arms.
Tia, easily the oldest of us in doggy terms, tired of it all first. She went and lay down by the van.
"Will they really be coming back?" asked Sally. "I'm getting a bit chilly now because I have no coat."
"Me too," said I.
Peter was still playing it cool and trying to look unconcerned.
"Well, they know the way, so perhaps they have set off back down the mountain and will meet us at the bottom."
Eh? Those dogs were bonkers. We all knew that. They had a problem finding each other when they were standing side by side.
We had started calling out for them a while ago and it had made us all hoarse by now, and Peter was getting just a tad less cool about it all. His decision was that we move off downhill because the light was fading fast, and pick up the trail lower down. Just how did you pick up the trail of two black poodles in the dark on an unknown mountainside?
About halfway back down, we came to a halt at a junction in the track next to a crumbling refuge hut, which looked a bit like an old stone-built bus shelter would look like, back in civilization. We pulled up by it and got out of the van, but could now hardly see anything in the dark because the clouds had come down and it was very misty too. Elderly Tia and Sally (a little younger) huddled together in the refuge. Peter set off down to the main road without us in case his dogs had fetched up there. We were to remain and stand on the track, shouting to attract the pesky poodles.
We watched the glow of the tail lights fading away downhill into the murk. It was not a comforting sight.
Can you guess what happens next?
DOG DAYS IN THE FORTUNATE ISLANDS is on sale here in the Canary Islands at all good bookshops that are supplied by Garcia y Correa, the main newspaper and book distributors. As an example, it is stocked in the north of the island by Libreria Stratfords in Puerto de la Cruz, and Libreria Red Hound in Los Cristianos. If you are reading this page, not in Tenerife, but perhaps in La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro, then Garcia y Correa will gladly supply you there.
John will be signing books soon in Libreria Red Hound, so watch out for a firm date to be published in a forthcoming issue of Tenerife News.
It is also available through John's publishers in the UK, at www.troubador.co.uk. Online, you can get it at Amazon (.co.uk, .com, .de. and .es) as well as from The Book Depository, WHSmith, Waterstones and Barnes & Noble etc. Online versions as e-books are available from Kindle and Nook. We think that the paperback version is very good value for £9.95 or locally priced at €13.
A lot of books cross our editorial desk and most do not see the light of day any further. This book is really something quite different, ranging from humour in the doggy tales, to pathos in some of the problems encountered with local bureaucracy. Buy a copy while stocks last!
DOG DAYS IN THE FORTUNATE ISLANDS
Author: John Searancke
For further information, visit www.johnsearancke.com
Short Extract from Prunes for Breakfast
The christening took place on the 29th May 1943. Despite the austerity of the war years, at least 20 of us had managed to come together for the service, conducted by my old friend Ron Moore . We all wore our Sunday best even though it was a Saturday. A couple of the more distant relatives from Chester wore what could only be described as outlandish hats, though they professed them to be à la mode. I suppose that Chester saw itself as one of the leaders in the fashion stakes. The family, on the other hand, were determinedly traditional.
It was a treat to see young JE wriggling about in the christening robe of Irish lace that I had managed to acquire when on my travels. He looked bright as a button and did not cry once during the service, even when he had water sploshed over his head. I hoped that he would grow up to take after me, but he currently had much of a look of his mother about him. Afterwards, we all walked back to my parents' house and enjoyed quite a boisterous party, surprising most of those present with the spread that we had managed to lay on, favours having been called in from everywhere. All in all, it was a thoroughly joyous occasion for all concerned. I was very proud, and Elizabeth was literally glowing.
I used my accrued leave to go back to see all of the family; staying at my own home, Grantchester at Ashby, and going over to Gresley to see my parents. It was an easy habit to get in to, although I was never sure that Elizabeth particularly wanted to go to Gresley. I suppose that she preferred to be queen of all that she surveyed, whether that be at Ripley or at Ashby. Sometimes she stayed behind at Grantchester in a bit of a sulk. JE, as I was still calling him, on the other hand, absolutely delighted in going to visit Pop and Lou, not just because of the cakes that had been made for him, but for all the exploratory trips that he could demand to make into the big barn behind my father's house. Stacks of wood and old bits of machinery seemed to fascinate him. Pop had even knocked him up a little toy wheelbarrow to put stuff in, and I could see that he could hardly wait to grow a bit bigger so as to manage to wheel bits of wood around in it. He just loved it over there.
John enlists a little help with his new release book promotion from Emily Watkins a judge on the BBC's Great British Menu.
John with the staff at Troubador Publishing. Pictured left to right are: John Searancke with Alice Graham(Book Review Editor & Marketing Controller), Sarah Taylor(Group Marketing Manager) and Hannah Stewart(Production Administration Assistant) from Troubador Publsihing.
John presenting a copy of his book to Anne James on behalf of The English Library in Tenerife
A book signing for Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands which took place last year.
Libreria Redhound was so pleased with the results from the Dogs Days in The Fortunate Island event, they have scheduled a book signing for Prunes For Breakfast to take place 16 January at the same venue.
Libreria Redhound in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Where can I find out more about John and his books?
Author and book links
Facebook Fan Page: http://bit.ly/PrunesFBpage
Amazon: http://bit.ly/prunesJSEB
Nook: http://bit.ly/PrunesNook
B&N: http://bit.ly/BNPrunes
Rukia Publishing Book Showcase: http://bit.ly/BSCPrunes
Dog Days In The Fortunate Islands: http://smarturl.it/dogdays15
Rukia Publishing Book Showcase: Dogs Days
Prunes for Breakfast is now available on expanded distribution at all good bookstores in ebook and paperback format.
iTunes: http://bit.ly/prunesitunes
Scribd: http://bit.ly/prunesscribd
Kobo: http://bit.ly/koboprunes
Bookbag Review: http://bit.ly/prunesreview
Reader Review: http://bit.ly/prunesJHreview
Radio Interview with John Searancke: http://bit.ly/prunesradint
See John Searancke on The English Enformer
Follow These Blogs For Up To Date Information on John Searancke
http://sarahjanebutfield-glass-half-full.blogspot.co.uk/
http://www.rukiapublishing.com/sarah-janes-blog
Spotlight island_connections on John Searancke


Have Murph report here tomorrow morning.
Scott had a good opinion of Trying.
Knut dove into the swimming pool.
Ninja asked me where Gregory lived.
My father won't let me go out with Kevin.
Well, it has been such a privilege to meet you, Daryl.
Straka's failure to pay rent on time had twice occasioned a penalty. Then the apartment manager warned that if it were to happen again, he would serve Sharan with a ten-day notice of eviction.
Sedovic was killed by a hired assassin.
Indra put the calendar on the wall behind his desk.
It is true that Cristopher is a strict father.
What exactly are you saying, Susumu?
Adrian pointed to Sanjib's car.
I can't believe Marek killed Srivatsan.
Jamie appears to have given up.
We're no longer working for Joni.
Bobbie and Kit think I don't know.
Suyog held out his glass.
When did Susanne get home?
Rusty sat alone at the kitchen table.
Socorrito and Sandy are both very competent teachers.
Wendy took Dani to the hospital on the back of his motorcycle.
Doyle let go of Dani's hand.
Pandora tells me that you're leaving.
How much of what Rafael said was true?
Jerome was caught in the crossfire.
Randal was very angry with Christie.
Vladimir is going to have a fit.
Laurel didn't look happy to see Stefan.
Sarah says a lot of things.
It's so sad to see Kay begging for money in the streets after he lost all his savings gambling.


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Visa-Vis
How to Get Into Iran Without a Visa
We found a loophole in the country's strict travel policy.
By Bill Wiatrak 4/1/2015 at 8:13am
Iranian passports. Image: Shutterstock
I decided a number of years ago to go to every country in the world. Things went pretty easy for a while as I knocked Europe off my list and most of South America. Lately, it's been getting a little more difficult with revolutions, impossible visas and places that are just too dangerous for travelers. So I started looking for loopholes. Iran has a very difficult visa policy. They don't give them away without a fight. However, there's one chink in their collective armor: the island of Kish.
Kish is a little tiny speck in the Persian Gulf that someone in Iran decided would be the next Dubai. That plan turned out to be a little too ambitious, and they compromised by making it a free trade zone, easier to get into than the rest of Iran. How do they do that? No visa is required to enter Kish. It's Iran lite, but it's still Iran, and if you're checking off countries like I am or just want a taste of what mainland Iran is like, then Kish is a perfect stop. It's also turned out to be a convenient place for Filipino and Indian workers from Dubai to renew their UAE expired visas. Kish hasn't seen the advertising that its Arab neighbors have, so there's not a lot of tourists visiting. There's also a few very strict rules that can put off would-be travelers. If you can get past that, it makes a great little island to visit for a day or two.
There's some obvious tension between the United States and Iran, so there's a few questions to be answered before you get your passport stamped. Since America has imposed economic sanctions on Iran, be forewarned that ATMs will not work with your debit card. Many signs are in English as well as Farsi, but there are a lot of places that just don't bother, so you'll always be the last one to know what's going on. Alcohol is forbidden, as is staying in a room with a member of the opposite sex who isn't your spouse. Plus, you can't just stay at any hotel. It's either a dormitory-style place that looks like a cross between jail and college (designed for long-term visa waitees), or a tourist hotel that costs at least twice what it should. The good news is that your expensive hotel includes breakfast and lunch, a complimentary mini-bar, a bag full of perfume, a selection of toiletries, and other perks.
Iranians are charming, and the island is very attractive. Only a short 30-minute flight from Dubai, it's small enough to navigate easily. If you prefer to avoid taxis, it's easy to rent a bicycle or an electric scooter. It takes four hours to bike around the entire island, and two and a half by electric scooter, although the battery will only last you two hours.
I rented a bike at the beach. The bike trails, it turned out, were a lot m ore fun than the roads. The beaches are beautifully covered with white sand, and the water is blue and crystal-clear. There's a pier that extends a few hundred yards out that makes for a nice walk, facilitates fishing and provides access to small boats. Along the beach you'll find odd, oversized prop statues at random intervals. There's a shovel and pail, a gargantuan girl lying on her stomach with her feet in the air, giant sand castles, and a colossal set of suitcases. Being a kid at heart, I was happy to pose with every single one of them.
The most touristy spot on the island is a restored underground cistern. It doesn't really sound interesting, but it is. In the distant past, water was captured, purified and run through underground canals throughout Kish to make it accessible for the island's inhabitants. This is a very dry part of the world with no lakes, so it was necessary for survival. It's fascinating to take an underground tour and see the tools, utensils and other items the ancient Kish used. The ceiling is so old it has fossilized, and other sections have been left as they were found. After the tour, there's an area where you can drink tea.
The abandoned Greek ship.
There's also the ancient city of Harireh, which is a big archaeological site on Kish. It's no Pompeii, but the walk is beautiful, the area boasts a restored 3,000-year-old building and additional excavations. You'll want to visit earlier in the day as there is little shade.
One of the more popular attractions, a mysterious Greek ship, is beached on the west coast. Yes, it's just an abandoned ship that cost too much to salvage, but it's a Kish photo-op and something of a local hot spot for the island's many visitors.
The Iranians I met couldn't have been friendlier or more hospitable. Most Americans are terrified of going to Iran, but guess what? Many Iranians are terrified of Texas. Just as we assume they're all burning American flags in the streets, they think we're all gun-toting cowboys. It's just as ridiculous a stereotype as what our media sometimes thinks of them.
So if you find yourself traveling in the Middle East and want to visit someplace new, a day or two on Kish might be just the stop for you.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Chatt Weddings
2023 The 13 Best Chattanooga Wedding Photographers You Can Use [Ultimate List]
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2. Sophie Boivin
Sophie Boivin specializes in engagement and wedding photography. She has been shooting weddings since 2010 and now has over a decade of experience. She's in both Chattanooga and Houston, TX. Her passion for photography continues to grow. She helps couples feel comfortable in front of the camera while also having fun.
Sophie's essential package costs $2,700. It includes 4 hours of coverage and 50 digital pictures per hour. The classic is $5,500. Offers 8 hours of coverage. A second photographer. Plus 50 digital pictures per hour. Finally, the deluxe package is $6,500. This includes 10 hours of coverage. A second photographer. And 50 digital pictures per hour. For all packages, you can expect a gallery delivery within six weeks.
3. Sarah Larae
Sarah Larae is a Chattanooga-based photographer who is both energetic and fun. She believes in treating people with kindness. And helping couples feel comfortable in front of the camera. Sarah, more than anything, wants to help create pictures you will cherish.
Sarah's wedding package starts at $3,100. Photo and video packages start at $6,200. And elopements, $950.
4. Damon's Photography
Damon and his team serve the Chattanooga area. They can handle any size wedding and every wedding gets at least two shooters. They excel at capturing the memories that will last a lifetime.
The starting price for Damon's packages is $1,500. Their most popular package is $3,000. The main difference between the two is the option of multi-location.
5. Cameron Coker Photography
Cameron is a Chattanooga-based photographer that embodies a contemporary style. He works with each couple to make sure everyone is comfortable. That allows him to capture authentic photos that are cherishable for years to come. Cameron's goal is to tell YOUR story.
6. Victoria Mason Photography
Victoria is very professional. Her style is a mixture of documentary-style and posed shots. The goal is to capture timeless moments of love, joy, fun, and laughter. All your pictures will have the option of large-scale, 20x30 acrylic prints.
What makes victoria different?
Victoria has experience, knowledge, expertise, and passion. This combination allows her to always capture unique pictures.
Victoria's pricing packages range from $2,100 to $4,999. She shoots 90% of her weddings by herself. But she always has the option to add a second shooter at an extra charge. A real plus is that there are a la carte options to customize your wedding package.
7. A&W Photography
A&W is a full-service wedding photography studio. They currently service Northern Alabama and Chattanooga, TN. Their work is contemporary but still captures the traditions of the wedding. Their couples say that A&W is absolutely priceless. If you're looking for a photographer in the Chattanooga area, A&W may be for you.
8. Daisy Moffatt Photography
Daisy is an amazing fine art wedding photographer based in Chattanooga, TN. She's passionate about putting couples at ease while creating fine art. Her wedding day was one of the best days of her life. Now, she tries her best to give that experience to others.
Daisy has a bunch of package options. Engagements start at $300. Anniversaries at $400. Elopement at $900. Day after at $300. And boudoir at $600.
9. Weddings By Keith Heptinstall
Weddings by Keith Heptinstall is in Chattanooga but also services Knoxville. Keith describes his work as photojournalistic with a mix of artistic portraiture. This husband and wife team has the goal to create memories that couples can treasure for a lifetime.
With every package, Keith will add a second shooter at the request of the couple. Their starting price is $2,400 with their most popular package being $3,000. All these packages will include a complete online gallery. Couples can also order albums, flush mounts, prints, and proofs.
10. Jered Scott Photographer
His approach when photographing people is straightforward. Jered looks to understand his clients. His style tries to emulate what he remembers his family pictures looking like from the 80's. He is works with various types of clients ranging from brands to intimate weddings. With weddings, he creates art that the couples will hold on to forever.
Jered's starting price for his wedding packages is $3,800. Included is an engagement shoot, high-res pictures, multi location, one day or event, and digital files.
11. Johnson De Photography
Dena Johnson serves Chattanooga as well as Southeast TN and North Georgia. Dena specializes in capturing special moments and can offer years' worth of experience.
Dena offers high-res insurance. Multi-location. Wedding portraits. Engagements. And print release.
12. Taylor English Photography
Taylor English is a Tennessee-based photographer. She specializes in engagement, wedding, portrait, event, maternity, boudoir and family photography. She loves to travel for many different styles of Photography other than the ones she's known for. With over 8 years spent behind the lens, she is one of the most creative storytellers around.
Taylor's client, on average, spend $5,800 for a full wedding experience. But each client can customize a wedding collection tailored for their needs.
13. PB Photography
What makes PB Photography unique? PB is a family-run studio that specializes in weddings. They took a break from wedding photography.
But they're back.
This is why they're one of the most affordable photographers on this list. PB is trying to build their wedding business. So, for $250 you'll get two photographers, no pre-set hours, and all images on a CD.
There is no denying that Chattanooga is one of the best places for weddings.
Coincidentally, Chattanooga is also home to some of the best wedding photographers.
Is there a best? That's up to you to decide!
Schedule Chatt Weddings for your dream wedding photos here!
If we helped you plan your Chattanooga Wedding with this article, you might like some of our others. We have an Ultimate Chattanooga Wedding Planning Guide. Top Places to Propose in Chattanooga. Chattanooga Wedding Hacks. Top Chattanooga Wedding Venues. And How To Save Money On A Chattanooga Wedding.
Top 13 Chattanooga Wedding Bands
20 Best Places to Propose In Chattanooga
How Expensive is a Chattanooga Wedding
© 2023 by Chatt Weddings


Was wondering where you were humphrey!
the usual good mix of classic rock songs today!
Merry Christmas Sam and my fellow listeners!
haha we found ya again Sam !!
Can't remember the song Sam, I'm old, but it made sense. It was eith a song title or a sound.
Hey-live Sam on the Zew! very cool!
Every day this week. Getting two paychecks!
I didn't catch the entire list of when he would be live on the other stations yesterday morning. I heard something about doing a stint on Classic Country but not the full lineup.
63 here Humphrey? That's cutting edge!
i couldn't get word press to recognize the TFO password, so I set up the 63 at the end.
Always good to hear Home by the Sea and Second Home by the Sea in order!
i had not been able to pull the page up from about 9 am EST until about 1 pm EST. i tried to refresh a few times with no luck.
That is strange. If that happenes send me an email.
a lot of good AOR tunes on here today Brock!
wait. a lot of good AOR tunes on here EVERY day!
Nice deep cut from Paradise Theater played earlier-Half Penny/Two Penny!
Today is the third anniversary of the Prince appearance as a contestant on the APril 21, 2016 episode of Celebrity Bucket Kickers.


The device has a built in laser, allowing the user to capture assets up to 100m away from the operator's position. This feature is benificial for any assets positioned under tree canopies or bridge structures where GPS signals can not be obtained due to no clear sky coverage.
The laser feature also allows for data to be recorded in restricted areas, when excavations are guarded by fencing and are not accessible at the time of survey.
In conjunction with the K-Mobile Software, on completion of the site survey, data is synced on site via a Cloud, transferring all recorded data, notes and photographs instantly back to the office.
The data can then be adapted to each client's specification, moments after the work has been recorded. This provides our clients with high accuracy data with fast turnaround times from construction installation to as-laid drawing submission.


A high proportion of flexor digitorum longus attachment is found at the posteromedial border of the tibia, which is the most common location of medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS). Therefore, plantar flexion strength of the lesser toes could be related to MTSS; however, the relationship between MTSS and muscle strength of the hallux and lesser toes is not yet evaluated due to the lack of quantitative methods. This study investigated the muscle strength characteristics in runners with a history of MTSS by using a newly developed device to measure the muscle strength of the hallux, lesser toes, and ankle.
This study comprised 27 collegiate male runner participants (20.0 ± 1.6 years, 172.1 ± 5.1 cm, 57.5 ± 4.0 kg). Maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque of the plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion of the ankle were measured by using an electric dynamometer. MVIC torque of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) and 2nd–5th MTPJ were measured by using a custom-made torque-measuring device. MVIC torques were compared between runners with and without a history of MTSS.
MVIC torque of the 1st MTPJ plantar flexion was significantly higher in runners with a history of MTSS than in those without it. In contrast, there were no significant differences in the MVIC torque values of the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion and each MVIC torque of the ankle between runners with and without a history of MTSS.
A history of MTSS increased the isometric FHL strength.
Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is one of the most commonly observed injuries in runners [1, 2]. Previous studies have reported that 15.2% of high school runners developed MTSS during the 13 weeks of cross-country season  and 43.6% of high school runners developed MTSS during the 3 years of the follow-up period , and took 44–78 days to resume their original athletic level . These studies indicated that prevention or treatment for MTSS is important; however, there is limited evidence regarding interventions being effective for the treatment and prevention of MTSS. A recent systematic review found that use of foot orthoses is beneficial for preventing MTSS . Conversely, wearing thick-soled and heavy shoes decreased the running economy . Thus, understanding of the etiology and correct intervention is important for preventing MTSS, without hampering the running performance.
A magnetic resonance imaging study has indicated that MTSS is a lesion in the junction of the periosteum and fascia . A previous study reported that elongational stress of the lower limb muscles, such as the soleus, flexor digitorum longus (FDL), or tibialis posterior (TP) increased strain in the tibial fascia . As larger navicular drop and excessive pronation during running are considered as risk factors of MTSS [9–11], it is assumed that MTSS is related to overuse of ankle inversion muscles. Furthermore, FDL had a higher proportion of attachment to the posteromedial border of the tibia, which is a more common location of MTSS than is the soleus (SOL) (FDL, 97%; SOL, 49%) , which suggested that MTSS could be developed by elongational stress of the FDL.
Considering the relationship between MTSS and ankle strength, a cross-sectional study reported that isokinetic inversion strength was relatively weaker than eversion strength of the ankle in patients with MTSS , and the mean number of standing heel-raise repetition test, an index of isotonic plantar flexion endurance of the ankle, was low ; however, a prospective study that investigated the risk factors of MTSS reported that preclinical ankle strength was not related to the development of MTSS , but the results conflicted with those of cross-sectional and prospective studies. The reason for this incongruence is assumed to be the inability by the participants to develop enough force due to pain at the time of measurement during the cross-sectional study. On the other hand, the participants did not have pain at the time of measurement during the prospective study.
In addition, the inversion muscle strength is a combination of three muscles (i.e., the TP, FDL, and flexor hallucis longus (FHL) forces. Because the FDL had a higher proportion of attachment to the posteromedial border of the tibia, which is the most common location of MTSS , plantar flexion strength of the lesser toes could be related to MTSS. Therefore, it was assumed that by measuring the plantar flexion strength of the hallux and lesser toes, the relationship between MTSS and muscle strength could be better understood. The relationship between MTSS and muscle strength of the hallux and lesser toes has not been evaluated due to the lack of quantitative methods.
Furthermore, MTSS is known to recur, and previous studies have reported that a patient with previous history of MTSS is at a risk of MTSS [15, 16]. This suggests that there must be some physical factor that induces MTSS in runners with a history of MTSS. Therefore, we assumed that a cross-sectional study investigating the relationships between MTSS and muscle strength of the hallux and lesser toes could be useful for estimation of MTSS risk factors. Moreover, because pain may inhibit force development, it is important to measure the muscle strength of subjects with a history of MTSS who are devoid of pain at the time of measurement.
This study aimed to conduct a detailed investigation of the muscle strength characteristics, including the muscle strength of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) and 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion, in runners with a history of MTSS by using a newly developed device. The hypothesis of the study was that the strength of the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion should be higher in runners with a history of MTSS because FDL, which attaches to the most common location of MTSS, excessively functions in runners with a history of MTSS.
This study comprised 27 collegiate male runner participants (20.0 ± 1.6 years, 172.1 ± 5.1 cm, 57.5 ± 4.0 kg). The inclusion criteria were that the runner had a history of either bilateral or no MTSS, which was defined on the basis of the following criteria for diagnosis of MTSS: (i) exercise induced pain that is located on the posteromedial border of the tibia, (ii) palpation of the posteromedial border of the tibia that produces discomfort, and (iii) site spreading over a minimum of 5 cm, determined by reference to Yates et al. . Participants with a history of unilateral MTSS, with a history of lower limb fracture and with pain in the lower limb by running at the time of intervention were excluded. A flow diagram indicating participant selection is shown in Fig. 1. Twelve participants without history of MTSS and 15 participants with a history of bilateral MTSS were included. The participants were given precise information about the content and order of the study. In addition, informed consent was obtained from all participants. This study was approved by the ethics committee of the Kyoto University Graduate School and the Faculty of Medicine (R0266).
To assess midfoot and rearfoot alignment of the participants, navicular drop and leg–heel alignment were measured. Navicular drop was calculated by subtracting the navicular height in the standing position from that in the sitting position. Navicular height was defined as the distance from the floor to the tubercle of the navicular bone, measured using a ruler . Leg–heel alignment was also measured by the same observer. Leg–heel alignment was defined as the angle between the midline of the distal one-third of the leg and that of the calcaneous through a calcaneal tuberosity. Then, the foot alignment was measured by a physical therapist who had >5 years of experience in orthopedic physical therapy .
Maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque of the plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion of the ankle were measured by using an electric dynamometer (BIODEX System 4, BIODEX, USA). Previous studies reported the reliability and validity of this instrument , and the intra-class correlation (ICC) of repeated measurement value of BIODEX was 0.99. Plantar flexion torque of the ankle was measured at 0° of ankle plantar-dorsiflexion and 0° of inversion–eversion. Dorsiflexion torque of the ankle was measured at 25° of ankle plantar flexion and 0° of inversion–eversion. Inversion and eversion torque of the ankle was measured at 0° of ankle plantar-dorsiflexion and 0° of inversion–eversion. The knee was at 45° flexion for all measurements. The participants were seated on the dynamometer with their trunk, upper thigh, lower thigh, and foot secured to a dynamometer by using nonelastic straps. After a warm-up session with submaximal contractions, the MVIC torques were measured for 3 s of maximal contraction for each direction while prohibiting reactive movement to determine the highest torque. The resting period was set to minimize muscle fatigue.
The MVIC torque values of the 1st MTPJ and 2nd–5th MTPJ were measured by using a custom-made torque-measuring device (Fig. 2). This torque-measuring device, developed by us, can quantitatively evaluate the plantar flexion torque of the 1st MTPJ and 2nd–5th MTPJ, which enabled us to evaluate the 1st and 2nd–5th MTPJ. The plantar flexion torque was measured from the tensile force of a strain gauge (TU-BR, TEAC, Japan) and the lever arm of the foot plate (0.10 m). The tensile force data induced by the plantar flexion of the MTPJ were converted from analog to digital data (Power Lab, AD instruments, Australia) via an amplifier (DPM-911B, Kyowa Electronics, Japan) and stored on a personal computer at 1000 Hz. The stored data were filtered at 10 Hz to filter low-frequency noise by using analysis software (Chart 5, AD instruments, Australia). The coefficient of variation (CV) for reliability of this strain gauge is 0.03%. The measurement device was calibrated using a luggage scale. The MVIC torque was defined as the maximal measured torque minus the resting passive torque. Plantar flexion torque values of the 1st MTPJ and 2nd–5th MTPJ were measured at 0° of ankle plantar-dorsiflexion and 30° of MTPJ. The measurement order of the toe was randomly decided. The participants were seated on a chair with their foot secured to a custom-made torque-measuring device by using nonelastic straps. After a warm-up session with submaximal contractions, each participant performed the MVIC torques of the 1st MTPJ and 2nd–5th MTPJ at each position for approximately 3 s without reaction force to determine the highest torque.
For all strength measurements, the order of measurement was quasi-randomized by participants ID. Each strength was measured twice, and a higher torque was used to determine the unilateral muscle strength. The mean value of right and left leg was used for statistical analysis.
Descriptive data are presented as means ± SDs. Shapiro–Wilk test were used to confirm normal distribution. To compare the foot alignment and MVIC torques between participants with and without a history of MTSS, unpaired t-test was used if normal distribution was confirmed, and Mann–Whitney U test was used if not. To assess the reliability of the muscle strength measurements in all participants (n = 27 right legs) in this study, ICC (1.1) was determined. In addition, CV was assessed by dividing the standard deviation of two repeated measurements by the average of two measurement values. Statistical analyses were performed by using statistical software (SPSS Statistics 22, IBM, USA). For all tests, statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Normal distribution was confirmed in all measurements of alignment and strength except for leg–heel alignment and inversion strength of the ankle. The results of the foot alignment are shown in Table 1. For both navicular drop and leg–heel alignment, there was no significant difference between participants with and without a history of MTSS. (p = 0.98 for navicular drop and 0.72 for leg–heel alignment). The reliability results are shown in Table 2, and the results of the strength are shown in Table 3. For the 1st MTPJ plantar flexion, the MVIC torque was 9.8 ± 2.3 N∙m in the participants without history of MTSS and 12.0 ± 3.0 N∙m in the participants with a history of MTSS, with significant difference (p = 0.04). For the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion, the MVIC torque was 6.0 ± 1.6 N∙m in the participants without history of MTSS and 6.0 ± 2.1 N∙m in the participants with a history of MTSS, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.94). For the MVIC torque of the ankle, there was no significant difference between participants with and without a history of MTSS (p = 0.45 for plantar flexion, 0.75 for dorsi flexion, 0.66 for eversion and 0.90 for inversion).
This study investigated muscle strength characteristics in runners with a history of MTSS by comparing the muscle strength of the ankle and toe between runners with and without a history of MTSS. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show the relationship between MTSS and toe strength. For both navicular drop and leg–heel alignment, there was no significant difference between participants with and without a history of MTSS. Thus, the foot alignment of participants was not different between the two groups. The ICC values for all muscle strength measurements were >0.61, and substantial reliability was confirmed .
In this study, the MVIC torque of the 1st MTPJ plantar flexion was significantly higher in runners with a history of MTSS than without it. In contrast, there was no significant difference in MVIC torque of the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion between the runners with a history of MTSS and without it. These results did not support our hypothesis that MTSS occurs because of excessive activity of the FDL, which could be identified as higher MVIC torque of the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion in runners with a history of MTSS. There are two possibilities regarding these results.
Our results suggest that runners with a history of MTSS adopt a strategy of reducing the load to the medial tibia because of their history of MTSS. A previous study reported that excessive pronation during motion is a risk factor of developing MTSS [9, 11]. The results also suggest that the FDL and TP muscles that act to support the arch of the foot tend to be stressed in runners who potentially have a risk for developing MTSS. On the other hand, although the FHL, which is an agonist of 1st MTPJ plantar flexion, has a function similar to those of the FDL and TP as the inversion muscle of the ankle, FHL is not likely to be related to development of MTSS because the FHL does not connect to tibial fascia . Thus, this characteristic increase in MVIC torque of the 1st MTPJ in runners with a history of MTSS could be considered to be a result of increased activity of the FHL to avoid pain caused by contraction stress of the FDL, which could be a possible cause of MTSS. Although the activity of intrinsic and extrinsic muscles cannot be distinguished by measuring the MTPJ plantar flexion strength, our previous study investigated the associations between navicular drop and toe flexion strength at a different angle of the ankle and toe, and the result showed that navicular drop was correlated with only toe flexion strength at the position where the intrinsic foot muscles are relatively elongated . This previous study indicated the correlation between intrinsic foot muscle strength and navicular drop. In the current study, navicular drop was not different between the two groups. Therefore, we considered that the activity of intrinsic muscle was not different between the groups while measuring the MTPJ plantar flexion strength.
Surprisingly, there was no significant difference in MVIC torque of the 2nd–5th MTPJ plantar flexion between runners with and without a history of MTSS. If runners with a history of MTSS adopt a strategy of reducing activation of the FDL by relying on the FHL to avoid pain during running, the MVIC torques of the 2nd–5th MTPJ could be lower. A previous study reported that the FHL tendon branches to the 2nd and 3rd toe in most cases . Therefore, it could be considered that the absence of a significant difference in the MVIC torques of the 2nd–5th MTPJ between runners with and without a history of MTSS could be due to the effects of the branching of FHL tendon to the 2nd and 3rd toe. Collectively, muscle strength characteristics in runners with a history of MTSS could be considered to be a result of increasing activity of the FHL to reduce the load on FDL and avoid pain caused by contraction stress of the FDL.
There were no significant differences in the MVIC torque values at the ankle between runners with and without a history of MTSS. This result supports a previous study showing that the isometric strength of the ankle measured in painless legs was not related to the development of MTSS . Collectively, these results suggest that characteristics in runners with a history of MTSS can be best understood by measuring toe strength rather than the ankle strength.
There are a few limitations in this study. First, the sample size was not enough in this study. Although the sample size was insufficient, we considered that the results were important because at least a moderate effect size was observed in the 1st MTPJ plantar flexion. Second, we investigated the relationships between MTSS and muscle strength as a static assessment. Therefore, it is unclear whether the results directly reflect muscle endurance or activity during running. However, in this study, measurement position of the ankle and MTPJ is same as the angle when the highest MTPJ moment is produced during running [25, 26]. Thus, it is considered that the MTPJ plantar flexion strength at this angle represents a certain aspect during running. Future study is needed to investigate the associations between MVIC torques in the MTPJ plantar flexion and endurance or dynamic assessments (e.g., alignment during running and plantar pressure of the foot).
This study investigated the muscle strength characteristics in runners with a history of MTSS by comparing the muscle strength of the ankle and toe between runners with and without a history of MTSS. The results showed that a history of MTSS increased the isometric FHL strength.
We appreciate Mr. Syoji for helping in recruitment and Ms. Ibuki for checking the manuscript.
This work was supported by a Grant-in-Aid from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Fellows (16J11346).
JS, MN, and NI devised and designed the experiments. JS, SN, KF, and KY performed the experiments. JS and MN performed data analysis and drafted the manuscript. MN, KM, and NI contributed to discussion and review of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript prior to the submission.
Informed consent was obtained from all participants. This study was approved by the ethics committee of the Kyoto University Graduate School and the Faculty of Medicine (approval number: R0266).


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Albion Michigan is going through a great many changes and we show some of those changes here on AlbionMich.net and the General Guide.
We have some interesting photos and videos of changes in Albion that you can see as you browse through this website. Albion is becoming known for its live music and is bringing more musicians and artists to town to enjoy our friendly city.
The Calendar page in the menu bar has links to official and current information.
Learn more about Albion's Farmers' Markets, the Walking and Biking trails that converge in Albion including the North Country Trail and the Iron Belle Trail. See where to visit regional historic locations and area arts, here on AlbionMich.net.
Get your business listed AND help us share the Arts, Trails and History of Calhoun County!
Get your business listed in the General Guide. Click Here.


text:
Jan Żabiński (8. dubna 1897 Varšava – 26. července 1974 tamtéž) byl slavný polský zoolog, zootechnik a fyziolog, žák Jana Sosnowského. Byl spoluzakladatel a druhý ředitel Varšavské zoologické zahrady (1928/1929-1951) a vrchní správce městských veřejných parků ve Varšavě.

Je autorem celé řady populárně naučných knih o zvířatech a jejich etologii, podílel se i na tvorbě řady rozhlasových pořadů s týmž zaměřením. Hrál významnou roli při záchraně zubra a jeho navrácení do přírody.

Za druhé světové války spolupracoval se Żegotou, spolu se svou ženou Antoninou a synem Ryszardem ukryl ve Varšavské zoo coby přechodném útočišti stovky Židů uprchlých z Varšavského ghetta, někteří zůstali i dlouhodobě. Jako poručík Zemské armády bojoval ve Varšavském povstání, byl zraněn, zajat a do konce války žil jako válečný zajatec v německých zajateckých táborech.

V roce 1965 ho i jeho manželku Jad vašem prohlásil za spravedlivé mezi národy. V roce 2007 napsala americká spisovatelka Diane Ackerman knihu The Zookeeper's Wife: A War Story, která pojednává o válečné činnosti Żabińských (založena je především na denících jeho ženy).

Dílo
Vydal 60 populárně naučných a 32 vědeckých knih.

 Jak powstała trąba słonia (česky vyšlo v roce 1960 jako Proč má slon chobot a ptáci peří) - určeno dětem
 Porozumienie ze zwierzęciem (1953)
 Z psychologii zwierząt (1956)

Odkazy

Reference

Související články
 Varšavská zoologická zahrada

Externí odkazy

  Żabiński na stránkách  Jad vašem
  The Zoo Director Who Saved Jews , článek ve Warsaw Voice
  Żabiński na stránkách Polské etologické společnosti

Polští zoologové
Polští etologové
Polští spisovatelé
Polští fyziologové
Spravedliví mezi národy
Příslušníci Zemské armády
Narození v roce 1897
Narození 8. dubna
Narození ve Varšavě
Úmrtí v roce 1974
Úmrtí 26. července
Úmrtí ve Varšavě
Pohřbení na Powązkowském hřbitově
Muži
Absolventi Varšavské univerzity

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Omalur è una suddivisione dell'India, classificata come town panchayat, di 12.536 abitanti, situata nel distretto di Salem, nello stato federato del Tamil Nadu. In base al numero di abitanti la città rientra nella classe IV (da 10.000 a 19.999 persone).

Geografia fisica
La città è situata a 11° 43' 60 N e 78° 4' 0 E e ha un'altitudine di 297 .

Società

Evoluzione demografica
Al censimento del 2001 la popolazione di Omalur assommava a 12.536 persone, delle quali 6.353 maschi e 6.183 femmine. I bambini di età inferiore o uguale ai sei anni assommavano a 1.237, dei quali 622 maschi e 615 femmine. Infine, coloro che erano in grado di saper almeno leggere e scrivere erano 8.074, dei quali 4.484 maschi e 3.590 femmine.

Note

Altri progetti

Centri abitati del Tamil Nadu


Our Book of the Month pick for August is possibly one of the most life-affirming books you're likely to read. Penned by the great-great-great granddaughter of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nina Riggs, The Bright Hour is a luminous and contemplative memoir about living with breast cancer. Riggs was diagnosed in January 2015 and it metastasised later that year, just months after her mother had died from the same disease. In The Bright Hour, she writes about what it is like to live with 'death in the room' – and it's every bit as wise, poignant, and heartbreaking as you'd imagine.
It's also witty, warm, and contemplative. Riggs talks about parenting, love, pain, and life in general with such optimism and joy that it's impossible not to be sucked in. She tells her story through a series of absurd, often hilarious vignettes, drawn from a life that has 'no real future or arc left to it, yet it still goes on as if it does.' Riggs is every bit as much a writer as her ancestor was; known primarily for her poetry, the prose in The Bright Hour is simply stunning, offering glimpses into a writer's life that will charm anyone who has ever enjoyed reading a story. Here, life is offset by the presence of death – it is unflinching and raw, but most of all it is a celebration of life and of finding comfort in the day-to-day.
Nina Riggs sadly died in February this year, making The Bright Hour all the more heart-wrenching. It is being compared to When Breath Becomes Air, the bestselling 2016 memoir by dying surgeon Paul Kalanithi. Something of a sensation when it was published, the book pulled in praise from major media outlets across the globe. Much like When Breath Becomes Air, The Bright Hour is so incredibly universal in subject matter that the readership potential is immense; it spans ages, genders, sexualities, race – it is, essentially, a book for everyone as it deals with one of the most human themes of them all: living and dying.
We can expect more of the same in the UK when The Bright Hour hits shelves this August. An unlikely summer read, perhaps, but one that is sure to completely blow away UK readers when they get hold of a copy.
This entry was posted on August 1, 2017 by turnaroundps in Books of the Month and tagged Nina Riggs, Text Publishing, The Bright Hour, The Bright Hour Text.


Joe will be teaching OUT OF SIGHT by Joy Huggins. Lesson starts at 7:15. Step sheet for this dance can be found here.
For those looking to take their dancing up a notch, Marianne will be doing reviews and discussing which dance everyone would like to learn next.
Beginner Bonus Dances - Beginner dances taught earlier this year which may include "Sangria Cha" "Good Girls Don't" "Think Of You" "Up & Down"
Line & Partner Dance Night, 7-10:30 pm, SPRING FLING AND OPEN DANCE NIGHT! Click on Date for More Info!


Susie is an experienced and inspirational speaker and her entertaining sessions provide a balance of information and motivation. She offers a range of topics, some of which are listed below. She would be delighted to speak at your next event so just call to discuss what you need from your conference keynote sessions, workshops, or sessions with colleagues and friends. She is also an experienced Conference Chair and will bring order, structure and control to your event.
1. Professionalism - It's All About Success.
Professionalism is a choice, an opportunity for you to think, behave and act in a way which will make you stand out from the crowd. It applies to all of us, all the time, not just in the workplace but in our personal lives as well so it's about everything we are and everything we do. Join Susie to take a look at the way professionals approach their world and to gain some very practical advice, intended to help you demonstrate your own professionalism 24/7.
2. If I Only Had Time - Sort it, Plan it, Make it Better.
Although you cannot truly save or manage time, you can always find ways to get more done in the time available to you. You just need a strategy that suits you, some tools and a little willpower.
3. Get Yourself Organised – Introducing Mind Mapping.
Getting organised is painless! Using this incredibly fast, effective way of thinking & planning will offer you new ways to think about any problem, at work or at home. Find out how to sort out your to-do list and plan your next meeting or project more effectively. Bring your problems with you and leave with the answers!
4. It's OK to say No! Or How to Run Meetings More Effectively, reduce their hidden costs and reclaim control over your diary.
At a time when organisations of all kinds are expecting more for less, it has never been more important to be able to streamline, to work effectively and efficiently. Take an objective look at the hidden costs of meetings of all kinds, how to run shorter, more effective meetings and, as a bonus, reclaim your diary.
5. How to Get What You Want – Let's Talk About Negotiation Skills.
Does it ever seem like other people always get what they want but you struggle to achieve what you need? Do you feel like you are on the back foot when it comes to that important conversation with a client or your employer? Negotiating skills are not difficult to master, you just need to know the 'what' and 'how' that will help you to get what you want every time. Understand what is at the heart of this type of transaction and get to grips with understanding the dynamics involved to get the deal you are after.
In such challenging times, your organisation will benefit from taking an honest and objective look at the currency, structure and value of your governance arrangements and to examine how those arrangements have a direct effect on the welfare and future prosperity of both your organisation and your members.
Succession planning should be a fundamental element of your organisation's activities – not an afterthought. It's about protecting your organisation's future viability and ensuring that your organisation continues to function effectively, even if personalities or circumstances change. If you haven't really got a plan then now would be a good time to write one!
How do well-run organisations benefit from the additional resource offered by the volunteer commitment of their regional groups and branches, rather than risking damage to their reputations locally?
To run any of these or other sessions for your staff or as a member event, just call us on 07968 583098 or email info@theprofessionalismgroup.co.uk.
All our services can be taken individually or combined into a structured programme of development suitable for your particular needs. Prices for all services are available on request so do get in touch to discuss or book any of our services. Just call on 07968 583098 or email info@theprofessionalismgroup.co.uk.


Family Fun Package in Trentino: 7 nights with activities and games!
"Dolomiti Family Fun" is the family-size package to spend a special winter holiday on the snows of San Martino di Castrozza-Passo Rolle!
Offer starting from € 580 per family unit (2 adults + 1 child between 4 and 12 years of age) in residence formula. In the hotel starting from € 1,138 in half-board.
- Night skiing at the Colverde facilities.
- Fanny ski bus that accompanies children to the slopes for the ski course (course not included in the price).
tourist tax, return journey, drinks, extras and anything not expressly indicated.


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Scottish Portrait Awards 2020
Enter the 2020 Scottish Portrait Awards from 2 April to 30 June.
You can find all the info on the Scottish Portrait Awards website
https://www.scottishportraitawards.com/
The 2020 SPAs are open for entries from April 2nd to midnight (UK time) on June 30 2020.
You may enter as many times as you wish. All portraits submitted should have been created after 1 January 2016
The SPA Judges are seeking diverse and well-executed works that inspire, excite, raise questions, entertain, deliver an emotional punch, and/or force us to look at ourselves and others differently.
Please note that the SPA Photography Award is only for black and white photography. If you enter a colour photograph for this competition by mistake we will enter the image in the SPA Fine Art competition instead.
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE SPAS
Artists may choose to enter either or both of the fine art and the photography competitions. Each artist may enter no more than six entries in each of the competitions.
An entry fee per artwork of £10 is payable to the Scottish Arts Club Charitable Trust. All proceeds are used to support the Scottish Portrait Awards.
All works entered for the competition should be the artist's own work and the subject must be known to the artist. All portraits submitted should have been created from life in the first instance and completed after 1 January 2015.
All works submitted for the youth award are also eligible for the major SPA awards.
Entries for the Scottish Portrait Award in Fine Art may be in any medium and in 2D or 3D formats. For Fine Art we welcome portraits in oil, water colour, pencil, collage, tapestry, photography and 3-D works in any material including digital works as long as these meet the size criteria. Why do we allow photography into the SPA in Fine Art when there is a separate SPA in Photography? Read here.
Although the work should begin from life, portraits that are more conceptual or contemporary in their approach are as welcome as more traditional portraiture.
The concept of 'portrait' may be interpreted in the widest possible sense. The subject may involve one or more people and self-portraits are also permitted. Portraits may include animals but only when these are secondary to the human subject.
Works submitted for the Scottish Portrait Awards should not have been previously exhibited in Scotland. This means the work should not have been shown in any public venue such as a gallery, shop, theatre, restaurant or any other place where the public can see the work. Exceptions are works that have been exhibited as part of a degree show or other educational purpose or for a charitable purpose.
Entries for the Richard Coward Scottish Portrait Award in Photography must be in black and white.
Any issues? Contact the SPA administrator, Dai Lowe, scotportrait@lucidity.ltd.uk
Image – 2019 Winner 'Alan Tanner' by Simon Murphy


In the Bible, there are a lot of scriptures that pertain to helping us improve life, business, professional, and personal altogether. In particularly, Jesus said to take no thought of your life regarding what you are going to eat, what you going to drink, what you're going to wear; because life is much bigger than what you're going to eat.
Life is much bigger than what you going to wear, people have made life all about that material stuff and in the process we've forgotten how to rule ourselves by ruling our thoughts.
You don't have to worry about your needs, and likewise, if you transfer the same faith you have for your needs to your wants and desires, you will be operating on absolute faith.
If we think of ourselves as children of God, children of the Universe, children of the Ultimate Intelligence, then we can learn by what the Universe has done with us through our children. I'm fortunate to have kids and in observing them, I realize a few things from young kids, (shoot) even most teenagers. They normally take no thought of food, clothing, shelter, or any of the common "needs" we typically have. Thousands of people worry about these common needs everyday.
They (children) have the absolute faith that they will receive the things they need from their parents. When it comes to a want or desire, such as a toy, fancy gadget, they simply come and ask me for it. Normally, I can tell from their level of faith, enthusiasm, and persistence if they are going to get what they are asking for from me. And I know when they do receive what they truly wanted; they will have the smile on from ear to ear and the face of gratitude on them.
I love that level of faith and gratitude, and that is what I'm reminded of when I think of the phrase, "taking no thought." You don't have to worry about your needs, and likewise, if you transfer the same faith you have for your needs to your wants and desires, you will be operating on absolute faith. Absolute faith in yourself, is absolute faith in your Creator and nothing beats that. I should make the point that taking no thought is not exactly not to think about food, clothing, shelter, but rather not to worry about not having food clothing and shelter.
The animals don't worry about it; they are instinctive about their needs knowing the Creator will provide. They are taking no thought of what they will eat, drink, and wear. And the thing about all of this is that we are much better than the animals of the field because we are made after the image of the Creator.
Absolute faith in yourself, is absolute faith in your Creator and nothing beats that.
You do want to take thought in the sense that you think about how gracious the Creator is to you for the food, drink, clothing, house, job, business, friends, family, and all the beautiful wonders of life the Creator has bestowed upon you! You have to focus on the good, focus on what you want, and if hardships come your way, be thankful you found a way to get through them to get back to the goodness of the Creator. Taking no thought, means don't think about how you're going to eat, drink, and dress, simply think and know you will be because the Creator has you.
Think of how well you are dressed, how well you eat, and how well you live and you'll have those things operating out of complete faith.
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P.P.S. Leave your comments, thoughts and stories in the comment section below.


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Attrition: Blood Island
December 15, 2006: One of the less noticed wars going on these days is taking place in Sri Lanka (just south of India), where a four years old cease fire between the government and ethnic (Tamil) separatists has finally broken down. This year, so far, there have been nearly 4,000 deaths (24 percent civilians, 19 percent government forces and 57 percent rebels). The year before, there had only been 330 deaths (about half of them civilians). In 2004 there were 109 deaths, with 59 in 2003 and 15 in 2002. In 2001, when the war was still going on, there were 1,822 deaths, and in 2000, 3791 dead. The fighting in 2000-2001 made it clear to the government that they had a deadlock on their hands. But four years of negotiations didn't break the deadlock, and the rebels grew weaker because of an internal split. One rebel faction wanted to accept autonomy, instead of partition of the island. The majority faction wants to fight on. But the government is better prepared, and it looks like the next year will be the bloodiest ever. The fighting has been going on since 1972, and left over 60,000 dead so far.
Attrition: Current 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999


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180th Rifle Division by Doug Drabik
On June 18th 1942, in Tcherepovets (Arkhangelsk Military District) in the Soviet far north from a yet as unidentified rifle brigade. The brigade was most likely from reserve or training forces in the area. The new 180th Rifle Division (new, as the first 180th Rifle Division had been renamed the 28th Guards Rifle Division) was formed with the following units:
-21st Rifle Regiment
- 42nd Rifle Regiment
-86th Rifle Regiment
-627th Artillery Regiment
-15th Antitank Battalion
-33rd Sapper / Engineering Battalion
The first division commander was Major General Fyodor Petrovich Shmelev. In late June 1942 the division was assigned to the 10th Reserve Army of Lt. General V.S. Popov, of the STAVKA reserve.
In August of 1942 the 180th Rifle Division was transferred to the reserves of the 31st Army led by Major General V.S. Polenov, of Marshal Zhukovs Western Front. By September of 1942 the division was transferred back to the STAVKA reserve (2nd Reserve Army).
In January of 1943 the division finally saw a combat posting with its assignment to the 3rd Tank Army ( Major General P.S. Rybalko) of Army General Golikovs Voronezh front. The Division was now under the command of Major General I. Ia. Maloshitsky. The division was transferred to the 69th Army (Lt.General M.I. Kazakov) and took part in the liberation of Borisovka. During this battle General Maloshitsky was killed in combat when division HQ was destroyed. General Maloshitsky had been awarded the Order of Suvorov (2nd class) for the units participation in the battle of Kharkov.
February 23rd, 1943, marked the beginning of the divisions participation in the liberation of Kharkov. The division had captured Kolmak Railroad station and the surrounding towns west of Kharkov. The division failed to capture the Artemovka Railroad station, and went over to the defense on March 7, 1943. The German counterattack destroyed the division's HQ ( the probable loss location of the original divisional standard). The German counterattack also destroyed all of the divisions anti-tank weapons, and forced it to withdraw to positions near Kachalovka. On 12 March the division was ordered by the common of 69th Army to withdraw to new defensive positions (line of Guberevka- Pavlovka- Dimitrovka- Bogodukhov). German attacks near Bogodukhov gutted the 21st Rifle Regiment and the 86th Rifle Regiment of the division. The division continued to move to the rear until it reached Kazach'ia Lopan on 12th of March, where it was re-subordinated to the 40th Army. The 180th Rifle Division was then tasked with taking up a defensive position outside of Belgorod, to prevent its recapture. The division was gutted and General Maloshitsky killed in heavy battle with the German 'Grossdeutchland' division.
Following this intense period of fighting the division was withdrawn on March 20th to a position further north, on the south flank of the newly formed Kursk salient. During the previous weeks of fighting the 180th Rifle Division liberated 150 towns and villages, destroyed the 385th and 387th Rifle regiments of the Italian 85th Infantry Division, took 14,000 enemy prisoners, killed 7,000 enemy soldiers, and captured or destroyed hundreds of tons of supplies. The losses during this period were also high with 1,661 men killed and 4,345 wounded. The division also lost most of its equipment. The division, by late March 1943, was totally gutted.
In late March 1943 the division was again reassigned to Lt. General N.E. Chibisovs 38th army. It was placed under the 51st Rifle Corps (Major General P.P. Avdeyenko). By September of 1943 the division was in battle at Sumy with the 51st Rifle Corps.
On November 6th 1943 the division took part in the liberation of Kiev with Army General Vatutins 1st Ukrainian Front. During this battle the 180th Rifle Division was awarded the honor title 'Kievskaya' and the Order of the Red Banner. On the night of November 6th the divsion was one of a number of units honored with a 24 round salute from 324 guns in Moscow.
In mid-November, 1943 the division was briefly transferred to Lieutenant-General F.F. Zhmachenko's 40th Army of the 1st Ukrainian Front. In December 1943 the division was transferred to Colonel-General S.G. Trofimenko's 27th Army (1st Ukrainian Front). From December 25th, 1943 to January 15th , 1944 fought south-west of Kiev in the 47th Rifle Corps of the 27th Army. It then assisted in the liberation of Yampol.
In February 1944 the 180th Rifle Division fought in the Korsun-Shevchenkovskii Operation. It began the operation in the 27th Army (1st Ukrainian Front) subordinated directly to the Army, not in the 47th Rifle Corps. Positioned on the 27th Army's right (south) flank between the 27th Army's 337th Rifle Division and the 167th Rifle Division of the 47th Rifle Corps of the 40th Army. It broke through to Selyi Kut on January 27th. The division subsequently formed part of the western edge of the ring encircling the Korsun-Shevchenkovskii German pocket directly facing the German "Blocking Detachment Fouquet". Later fought against the SS "Narva" unit and was one of the key defenders against the south edge of the German pocket where they fought together with the 5th Guards Cavalry Corps.
On February 12th, 1944, 2400 hours, transferred, along with the entire 27th Army, to Konev's 2nd Ukrainian Front during the course of the Korsun-Shevchenkovskii Operation. Positioned with the 18th Tank Corps just north of Lisyanka during the German's February 14th to 16th breakout attempt. The division participated in the capture of the town of Boguslav. On February 27th, 1944 the 180th fought against the Panzer Grenadier Regiment "Germania" at Olshana. The 180th spent much of spring 1944 recovering with the 35th Guards Rifle Corps of the 27th Army. Command was taken over by Major-General Anton Aleksandrovich Pavlovich.
In May 1944 the division fought in the 27th Army at Targul Frumos, and in July 1944 was transferred to the RVGK reserve. By August 1944 the 180th fought in the Iassi-Kishinev operation as a breakthrough division in Lieutenant-General I.T. Shmelin's 46th Army in Malinovskii's 2nd Ukrainian Front. The 180th Rifle Division was awarded the honorific title "Transylvanskaya".
From December 1944 to February 13th, 1945 the division fought at Budapest in Major-General Ivan Anreyevich Rubanyuk's 10th Guards Rifle Corps in the 46th Army, now in Tolbukhin's 3rd Ukrainian Front. Participated in the battle of Budapest, where it again suffered heavy losses. In mid-February, 1945 General Pavlovich was replaced as commander by Colonel Ilya Dmitrievich Andryukov (possibly due to Pavlovich's death).
On March 21st 1945 the 180th liberated Felshyogalla, Hungary (part of the city of Tatabanya) alone (while part of 75th Rifle Corps, 46th Army now led by Major-General M.S. Filipovskii). The division was awarded a 20 salvo salute from 224 guns in Moscow on March 25th.
On April 13th, 1945 the 180th participated in the liberation of Vienna as part of the 75th Rifle Corps (46th Army). By May 1945 the 180th Rifle Division finished the war in Vienna as part of the 24th Guards Rifle Corps of Colonel-General I.M. Managarov's 53rd Army.
The standard of the 180th Rifle Division hung in the Kiev Military Museum (due to the fact that it was a Kiev liberation unit) for many years. It is in very high quality velvet (not the same as the postwar civilian award banners) with the date of Febuary 1st, 1945 inside the pole sleeve.
--Doug Drabik
dadrabik@carroll.com
published at PKKA-CA by permission of author
Alexei Nikiforov
Jan.24, 1999


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MLB details first three matchups for live games on YouTube
Hilary Russ
FILE PHOTO: People are silhouetted as they pose with mobile devices in front of a screen projected with a Youtube logo, in this picture illustration taken in Zenica October 29, 2014. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/File Photo
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Major League Baseball and YouTube on Wednesday released details of the first three matchups under their agreement to stream a package of 13 live games every week on the video-sharing website.
Their deal, announced in April, was the first agreement for YouTube, a unit of Alphabet Inc's Google, to exclusively stream MLB games in major markets. MLB also has other deals to stream some live games on both Facebook and Twitter.
The YouTube pact is one of several showing how digital platforms, streaming services and social media networks have been stepping into live sports - traditionally the territory of broadcasters.
YouTube has global distribution rights that are exclusive in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico via MLB's YouTube channel, free to view. Subscribers to YouTube TV will also be able to watch the games on a forthcoming channel.
In the first game on July 18, six-time World Series champions the Los Angeles Dodgers will play the Philadelphia Phillies.
Week two on July 23 features the Cleveland Indians versus the Toronto Blue Jays, with the third game on July 29 between the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Angels, MLB said in a statement. All games will include pregame and postgame shows.
Reporting by Hilary Russ; Editing by Sonya Hepinstall


A large bag of craft clay for all your pottery creations. Use as a sensory material for free exploration. Try on large plastic sheets on the floor for really great messy play. 10kg bag of clay. It has a firing range of 1120°C - 1280°C, and a fired colour of Warm Buff / Grey. Rec 3+ Yrs.


Georgia O'Keeffe, the painter known as the "Mother of American Modernism," once said, "I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way – things I had no words for." O'Keeffe's words say so much about art and what it can mean in one's life.
In Los Angeles, we celebrate inclusion in arts programs. Many children with disabilities are taking their first dance steps, performing in their first music videos and imagining their first film projects because of the amazing programs available in one of the most creative places on Earth.
Then Romeo found a place in Los Angeles that would change everything – the Spectrum Laboratory film and music program. With the help of Spectrum Laboratory, Lutes wrote the lyrics to a song called "The Girl Inside" and sang the song in a music video: I don't got no control. I ain't got no control. I can't let go, this girl inside, this girl inside. It's not me.
"In 100 years, I could never imagine she could be capable of this," says Romeo.
Jason Weissbrod, who co-founded Spectrum Laboratory two years ago, calls the program "a platform for the autistic community to get their art out there and raise autism awareness. We help them, we guide them and show their talent," he says.
Since working with Spectrum Laboratory, Romeo says Lutes' self-awareness has gone "from one to 100," because seeing herself on video helps Lutes understand how she shows herself to the world.
Spectrum Laboratory (www.speclabs.org) empowers artists on the autism spectrum to create original works of film and music. They provide collaboration with professionals and help their student artists learn the skills of their craft. Kids and adults of all ages are welcome and classes are held at Spectrum's Leo Baeck Campus (1300 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A.) and Music Space Studios – Studio West (14801 Oxnard St., Van Nuys).
Perry is now in her eighth season at Free to Be Me Dance (www.free2bemedance.com) and had never taught before when she started – though she had studied ballet for 17 years. What is most important for her is seeing her students become part of their community. Perry reports that some of her students are now participating in school life through cheerleading, drill team and school plays. One of her students is even working toward earning a black belt. The dance sessions are fun and filled with joy, but inclusion into the community is the goal.
Classes for ages 7 and up include hip-hop, ballet and tap and there is a "Moving and Grooving" class for ages 2-7. Free to Be Me has studios in Long Beach and Orange County, and on the Westside.
Infinite Flow, a dance company in Sherman Oaks, is on a mission to increase access to quality dance instruction for people with disabilities in inclusive environments. Founder Marisa Hamamoto is intent on building a world-class professional dance company that includes dancers with and without disabilities – some who use wheelchairs – as a vehicle to break stereotypes and perceived barriers.
Hamamoto believes bringing ambulatory children and children who use wheelchairs together creates lessons for life. "Each person is different," she says. "Disability is just another trait like short or tall. Infinite Flow values inclusion over disability and everyone is learning from each other." Standing and wheelchair dancers perform together and function in equal roles whether it's dance, public speaking or leadership. Hamamoto is working toward a world where inclusion is mainstream.
Infinite Flow (www.infiniteflowdance.org) classes are currently held in Sherman Oaks. Dancers learn ballroom and hip-hop. Members of Infinite Flow Kids are also given the opportunity to propose their own Infinite Flow projects, which have included fundraisers and choreographing their own dances.
Infinite Flow Kids is open to age 7 and up, though younger kids are admitted if they display maturity and ambition. The group is audition-only, and dancers must display rhythm and coordination and ability to take direction and include and cooperate with fellow dancers of varying abilities and backgrounds.
Able ARTS Work: This program – with studios in Long Beach, Gardena and Hawthorne – is dedicated to providing "lifelong learning, community service and vocational opportunities through the creative arts for people with disabilities of all ages in an environment of warmth, encouragement and inclusion." In addition to day programming for adults with disabilities at its various locations, Able ARTS Work offers accessible arts workshops in schools and through community organizations, a Mobile Arts Program to bring creative arts therapy to people with disabilities who cannot attend a day program, a clinic that employs creative arts therapies for children with a variety of disabilities, and a vintage camper that brings pop-up inclusive arts and music workshops and exhibits to community events. The organization also hosts two community art galleries where artists of all abilities show their work.
The Music Therapy Wellness Clinic at CSUN: The clinic provides individually designed music activities for children and adults with a variety of disabilities, including developmental and learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental and emotional disorders. The Rising Star Choir, geared toward children with autism, sings music of different styles as well as music that the choir members compose individually and as a group. Non-music goals such as socialization, self-esteem, attention to task and the creative process are also addressed. The Sunshine Singers is a music therapy group for young adults with a wide array of challenges that rehearses and performs as a choir. Learn more by calling 818-677-5663 or emailing csunmtwc@csun.edu.
Ballet for All Kids: This organization offers ballet training to all children regardless of ability. All are welcome to come and dance, including children with autism, learning and developmental disabilities, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues and ADHD. They also welcome children who are blind, deaf or non-ambulatory as well as typical children who would like a fun and relaxed way to learn ballet. They have locations in Agoura Hills and Encino.
Christine Romeo, Abbey Lutes' mom, says a disability can often change your perspective on your child's progress and what achievement looks like. "It slows you down to the mini miracles, like tying your shoe. But you eventually get to tying your shoe, even if it takes a year and a half," she says. The arts can provide kids with opportunities for other mini miracles – and even major ones. And our creative community is ready, willing and able to help make them happen.
Donna Tetreault is Parenting Contributor at FOX 11. She is also a contributor for The Insider, the 'Parents' Guide' on CBS and a Huffington Post blogger. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Andrew, and their two young sons.


text:
6 Socialite / 7 TV Personality / J
by ethnic · February 16, 2010
Jenner in 2010, kathclick/bigstock.com
Birth Name: Kristen Mary Houghton
Place of Birth: San Diego, California, United States
Date of Birth: November 5, 1955
Ethnicity: English, with some Scottish, Irish, German, and Dutch
Kris Jenner is an American socialite and television personality. Kris is from a family that has lived in the United States for many generations. She has English, as well as smaller amounts (to varying degrees) of Scottish, Irish, German, and Dutch, ancestry.
Kris is the daughter of Mary Gorden/Jo (Campbell) and Robert True Houghton. With her first husband, Robert Kardashian, a lawyer, she is the mother of socialites Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, and Rob Kardashian. With her second spouse, Olympic gold medalist Caitlyn Jenner (born William Bruce Jenner), she is the mother of socialites Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner. Her stepsons are musician Brandon Jenner and socialite Brody Jenner. Among Kris's grandchildren are Penelope Disick and North West.
A 23andMe DNA test whose results were displayed on the show Keeping Up with the Kardashians (2018) stated that Kris's daughters Kourtney and Khloé's genetic ancestry is:
*53%-58% European
——–*4.5% French
*41.6% Middle Eastern & North African
The test also evidently stated that the Kardashians have a fraction of Native American DNA, presumably under .4% in Khloé's case, given her 58% European and 41.6% Middle Eastern results.
Kris's paternal grandfather was True Otis Houghton (the son of Otis Sewall Houghton and Lula Laura Bernard/Barnard). True was born in Oklahoma. Kris's great-grandfather Otis was the son of Reuben Albert Houghton and Sarah Elizabeth Mantor. Lula was the daughter of William B. Barnard/Bernard and Elizabeth Gililland/Gililand.
Kris's paternal grandmother was Mary Lee Pickens (the daughter of Charles/Charlie Luran A. Pickens and Lizzie/Elizabeth Mae/Mary A. Douglas/Douglass). Kris's grandmother Mary Lee was born in Texas. Charles was the son of Andrew Jackson Pickens and Sarah Hines Merrit/Meritt. Lizzie was the daughter of Eugene Murphy Douglas and Martha Jane Wilson.
Kris's maternal grandfather was Gorden/Gordon Lowe Campbell (the son of Jefferson Davis Campbell and Freedonia/Fredonia/Fredom May Teaney). Gorden was born in Oklahoma. Jefferson was the son of Morton Campbell and Mary Elizabeth Northern. Freedonia was the daughter of James Daniel Teaney and Martha J. Lambert.
Kris's maternal grandmother was Lou Ethel Wyatt (the daughter of Walter Alba Wyatt and Mary Tiny VanZandt/Van Zandt). Lou was born in Mississippi. Walter was the son of John E. Wyatt and Margaret A. "Maggie" Bradley. Mary was the daughter of Jacob James VanZandt/Van Zandt and Margaret Elizabeth Magee.
Kris's matrilineal great-great-great-grandmother, S. Margaret "Maggie" Gray, was born, c. 1833, in Mississippi.
Jenner with granddaughters North West (left) and Penelope Disick (right) in 2015 – photo by Prphotos
Sources: Genealogy of Kris Jenner – https://www.wikitree.com
Genealogies of Kris Jenner (focusing on her father's side) – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com
https://www.geni.com
Genealogy of Kris Jenner (focusing on her father's side) (through Kris's daughter, Kim Kardashian) – http://famouskin.com
Kris's maternal grandmother, Lou Ethel Wyatt, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org
Genealogy of Kris's maternal great-grandmother, Mary Tiny VanZandt – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com
Genealogies of Kris's maternal great-great-grandparents, Jacob James VanZandt/Van Zandt and Margaret Elizabeth Magee – https://www.ancestry.co.uk
Devon Bostick
Kane Atwood
Aron Ralston
Tags: DutchEnglishGermanIrishScottish
https://www.ancestry.co.uk/genealogy/records/jacob-james-van-zandt_42999761
Rick Fox
Cameron Palatas
Carlito Olivero
Eka Darville
Jasmin Savoy Brown
Taylor Hall
Rhonda Ross Kendrick