"The Wax Pack: On The Open Road In Search of Baseball's Afterlife"
With this continuing pandemic going on all around the world, I had to find ways to pass the time while in my house. I watched plenty of TV and movies, and read and re-read lots of books. But I received a book to review that I really enjoyed reading, and naturally it was on baseball: "The Wax Pack: On the Open Road In Search of Baseball's Afterlife" (University of Nebraska Publishing) by Brad Balukjian. The book is based on a concept I can relate to, as Balukjian took a pack of baseball cards from 1986 from Topps, and decided to check out the post-baseball lives of the 15 men he unwrapped. I grew up collecting baseball cards, and I thought it sounded like such a great idea.
But a lot of people in the publishing world weren't so taken with it, as Balukjian was rejected 38 times before he finally found a publisher. Balukjian actually opened the pack of cards thirty years after it first came out, chewed on the gum enclosed inside (which wasn't a pleasant experience) and decided to see what became of the players who were in his pack. The players range from a Hall of Famer (Carlton Fisk), highly decorated pitchers (Dwight Gooden and Rick Sutcliffe), infielders who made their mark (Garry Templeton, Randy Ready, Rance Mulliniks), and guys who never really made it in the game (Jaime Coconower).
Balkujian starts in California where he lives (he's a writer and a biology teacher at Merritt College in Oakland) and criss-crosses the country to find all the players. (One he could not visit was Al Cowens, who died in 2002.) He did this in 2015 and drove over 11,000 miles to speak with all his subjects. He would cross 30 states in 48 days. Previously he did nearly a year of research in contacting the 14 former big leaguers, following up with emails and phone calls. He met with all but two (Vince Coleman and Carlton Fisk with the only ones who declined to participate).
In his interviews with the players, he made it clear that he was more interested in them as people than as ex-ballplayers. Many of them opened up to him about their personal lives, like the divorces they went through and the relationships that broke apart in their lives. Balukjian also retraces his own past, reconnecting with an old girl friend, and is very upfront about his lifelong battle with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Brad Balukjian has written a very different type of baseball book, one that I found fascinating, especially about how most of these former heroes view their lives after baseball. It was a very enjoyable read, following him on the road, and one very much worth your time to read, whether we are in a pandemic or not.
Trivia Q&A: August 27
We had another great night of Facebook Trivia Night last night, with another terrific finish among four teams separated by just three points going into IQ Trivia. (Three of which were my individual sisters!) But it was the team of Molly Vallon and Brad Cook (two of my old Professor Thom's Trivia regulars) who pulled out the win with 45 points. Congratulations to them on their hard-fought win! See you all again next Thursday night!
Purple Trivia
1. The Purple Heart medal features the image of what US president?
2. What Pulitzer Prize winning author wrote the novel "The Color Purple?"
3. The Purple Dragons were a street gang in what animated series?
4. Who wrote and directed the 1985 film "The Purple Rose of Cairo?"
5. In the board game "Clue", what character is represented by the purple token?
6. Prince released the critically acclaimed album "Purple Rain" in what year?
7. Name 1 of the 2 NFL teams that uses purple as its primary uniform color.
Republican Party Trivia
1. Who was the first Republican elected president of the US?
2. What Republican president was born Leslie Lynch King Jr.?
3. What 20th century Republican president served two terms and made an ill fated run for a third term as a third party candidate?
4. Chuck Grassley, of what midwestern state, is the longest serving Republican senator?
5. What onetime US senator was the last Republican who was both an unsuccessful presidential and vice presidential candidate?
6. Who was the last Republican who represented NY state in the US Senate?
7. Who was NY state's last Republican governor?
The Q Train: Solo Beatles Albums Trivia
1. Band On the Run
2. Mind Games
3. Living In the Material World
4. Venus and Mars
5. Walls and Bridges
6. Sentimental Journey
7. All Things Must Pass
8. Double Fantasy
9. Goodnight Vienna
10. Kisses On The Bottom
1. How many hours time difference is there between London and New York? ( 1 pt)
2. What is the second largest state in the US in land area? ( 1 pt)
3. How many symphonies did Beethoven compose? ( 1 pt)
4. Which of the three Chipmunks wore glasses? ( 2 pt)
5. What is the most common color of M&Ms? ( 2 pt)
6. On which finger do human fingernails grow the fastest? ( 2 pt)
7. What planet is nicknamed "the planet of dreams" due to its color? ( 3 pt)
1. "Where Is Everybody" is the first episode of what classic science fiction series? ( 3 points)
2. What is the name of the anniversary that is celebrated after 70 years of marriage? ( 5 points)
3. The Bank of America is headquartered in what southern US city? ( 4 points)
4. Helen Keller was a co-founding member of what organization in 1920? ( 4 points)
5. What American author has penned 58 novels in his career, with 7 written under the pen name "Richard Bachmann?" ( 4 points)
1. George Washington; 2. Alice Walker; 3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; 4. Woody Allen; 5. Professor Plum; 6. 1984; 7. Minnesota Vikings and Baltimore Ravens.
1. Abraham Lincoln; 2. Gerald Ford; 3. Theodore Roosevelt; 4. Iowa; 5. Bob Dole; 6. Al D'Amato; 7. George Pataki.
1. Paul; 2. John; 3. George; 4. Paul; 5. John; 6. Ringo; 7. George; 8. John; 9. Ringo; 10. Paul.
1. Five; 2. Texas; 3. Nine; 4. Simon; 5. Brown; 6. Middle; 7. Neptune.
1. The Twilight Zone; 2. Platinum; 3. Chalotte, NC; 4. ACLU; 5. Stephen King.
We had another great night of Trivia on Thursday, our twentieth edition of Facebook Live Trivia Night. It was a close race to the finish, but the team of Team FinniQuinn pulled off the victory, rolling up 48 points. My sister Maureen Russell was second with 46 points. It was the second win for Team FinniQuinn, and my congratulations to Lauren and Michael on yet another victory. Looking forward to seeing many of you next Thursday night!
August Trivia
1. On August 1, 1914, what nation declared war on Russia, beginning WWI?
2. On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King made his famous "I Have a Dream" speech at what famous Washington DC landmark?
3. In August 1992, actress Tracey Gold was written out of what 1990s sitcom as she hospitalized for anorexia?
4. MLB players went on strike in August of what year, which led to the cancellation of the World Series?
5. Name 1 of the 3 birthstones associated with the month of August.
6. Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958 in what US state?
7. Name 2 of the 4 US presidents born after the Civil War and in the month of August.
Democratic Party Trivia
1. Who was the first Democratic president of the 20th century?
2. Patrick Leahy, of what US state, is currently the longest-serving Democratic senator?
3. Which Democrat succeeded George Pataki as governor of New York state?
4. What former US senator is the only Democrat to lose both a presidential and a vice-presidential election?
5. Who was the first Democratic president to be impeached?
6. John Glenn, the former astronaut and Democratic senator, represented what midwest state?
7. What eastern US state was the only one that George McGovern won in his 1972 presidential defeat to Richard Nixon?
The Q Train: US Airports Trivia (Name the City)
1. PHL
2. IAH
3. TPA
4. MSP
6. ORD
7. NEW
8. BWI
9. LAS
10. SAN
1. The headquarters for Target is located in what US state? ( 1 pt)
2. What military base includes the hangar that is the home of Air Force One? ( 1 pt)
3. What is the second largest city in Japan in population after Tokyo? ( 1 pt)
4. What NBA team did Larry Bird go on to coach after leaving the Boston Celtics? ( 2 pt)
5. The Azore Islands belong to what European country? ( 2 pt)
6. What author wrote the novel "50 Shades of Grey?" ( 2 pt)
7. "The Jesus Tablet" is a nickname for what item? ( 3 pt)
1. What 20th century US president endured two assassination attempts in less than a month? ( 4 points)
2. What character spent a full decade on TV trying to secure a "section 8"? ( 3 points)
3. What North African country has been the largest country in Africa by area since 2011? ( 5 points)
4. Willis Carrier was an engineer who is credited for inventing what modern appliance? ( 4 points)
5. An antiemetic is a drug that is effective against what common problem? ( 4 points)
1. Germany; 2. Lincoln Memorial; 3. Growing Pains; 4. 1994; 5. Peridot, Sardonyx and Spinel; 6. Indiana; 7. Hoover, LBJ, Clinton and Obama.
1. Woodrow Wilson; 2. Vermont; 3. Eliot Spitzer; 4. Walter Mondale; 5. Andrew Johnson; 6. Ohio; 7. Massachusetts.
The Q Train: US Airports Trivia
1. Philadelphia; 2. Houston; 3. Tampa; 4. Minneapolis-St. Paul; 5. Honolulu; 6. Chicago (O'Hare); 7. New Orleans (Lakefront); 8. Baltimore-Washington; 9. Las Vegas; 10. San Diego.
1. Minnesota; 2. Andrews AFB; 3. Yokohama; 4. Indiana Pacers; 5. Portugal; 6. E.L. James; 7.iPad.
1. Gerald Ford; 2. Max Klinger; 3. Algeria; 4. Air conditioner; 5.Vomiting/nausea.
We had another great turnout of folks for Trivia on Thursday night, our nineteenth edition online, and nearly had history made in our short time of doing Facebook Live Trivia Night. Steve Thomas and Mary Reynolds, two of my old Professor Thom's Trivia regulars, had an amazing game going, as they were perfect in the first four rounds. (I mentioned that the "p" word was going, as I didn't want to jinx anything!) But unfortunately, they got 4 of 5 correct in IQ Trivia, so the perfecto was gone. But they wound up the champions for the second time, getting 52 points and the win. Congrats to them both. Larry Fleisher finished second with 49 points. See you all next Thursday night!
Woodstock Artists Trivia
1. What rock artist won 8 Grammys awards including Album of the Year, tying Michael Jackson's record in 2000?
2. What West Coast based band, which never won a Grammy, didn't reach the Top 10 on the album chart until 1987 with "In The Dark?"
3. John Belushi did a hilarious parody in 1975 on "SNL" of what English singer who appeared at Woodstock?
4. "Quadrophenia" and "Endless Wire" were hit albums for what English rock band?
5. What legendary guitarist played The Star Spangled Banner at his Woodstock appearance?
6. John Sebastian, lead singer of the Lovin Spooonful, had a Top 10 single in 1975 to the theme from what sitcom?
7. What legendary female singer, who died in 1970, played at the festival with her band Kozmic Blues Band?
2010s Movie Trivia
1. Released in 2015, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" was given what episodic number?
2. The Coen Brothers remade what classic 1969 western film in 2010?
3. What action film icon starred in the 2012 film "Looper", a sci-fi film set in 2074?
4. Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar in 2014 for Best Actor for what film?
5. The 2010 film "The King's Speech" told the story of what English king?
6. Who was the only actor nominated 3 times in the 2 major acting Oscar categories in the 2010s, winning Best Supporting Actor In 2010?
7. Name 1 of the 2 actresses to be nominated at least 4 times in the 2 major acting Oscar categories in the 2010s?
The Q Train: Classic Movies Cities Trivia
1. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
2. Dirty Harry
3. The Blues Brothers
4. Moonstruck
5. Driving Miss Daisy
6. Trading Places
7. The Town
8. A Streetcar Named Desire
9. Scarface
10. Gran Torino
1. What is the heaviest planet in the solar system? ( 1 pt)
2. To what country does the island of Tasmania belong? ( 1 pt)
3. Pope Francis ended the longstanding papal tradition of popes wearing shoes of what color? ( 1 pt)
4. What US president's real name was Hiram? ( 2 pt)
5. Between Sherlock Holmes, Superman and Spiderman, which character has been played by the most actors? ( 2 pt)
6. From 1996-98, Craig Kilborn was the first host of what current TV show? ( 2 pt)
7. Themyscira was the mythical island home of what superhero? ( 3 pt)
1. Who was the top selling British solo singer in the US, having sold over 78 million units in this country? ( 4 points)
2. What US city has more billionaires per capita than any other city in the world? ( 4 points)
3. What Oscar-winning actor is the oldest man to win People magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive?" ( 5 points)
4. "Goldeneye" was the first film made by what James Bond actor? ( 3 points)
5. Dixville Notch is a small community in what eastern US state that announces its presidential vote first in the nation just after midnight every four years? ( 4 points)
1. Carlos Santana; 2. Grateful Dead; 3. Joe Cocker; 4. The Who; 5. Jimi Hendrix; 6. Welcome Back, Kotter; 7. Janis Joplin.
1. Seven; 2. True Grit; 3. Bruce Willis; 4. The Theory of Everything; 5. George VI; 6. Christian Bale; 7. Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lawrence.
The Q Train: Classic Movies Trivia
1. San Diego; 2. San Francisco; 3. Chicago; 4. New York; 5. Atlanta; 6. Philadelphia; 7. Boston; 8. New Orleans; 9. Miami; 10. Detroit.
1. Jupiter 2. Australia; 3. Red; 4. US Grant; 5. Sherlock Holmes; 6. The Daily Show; 7. Wonder Woman.
1. Elton John; 2. San Francisco; 3. Sean Connery; 4. Pierce Brosnan; 5. New Hampshire.
Trivia Q&A: August 6
We had another fine night of Trivia on Thursday night, our eighteenth so far, and my parents each made an appearance, having just returned from Florida earlier this week. It was another close race to the finish, but Francine Hamilton won her third Facebook Live Trivia Night, with 49 points, just edging out Larry Fleisher, who had 48 points, and Gillian DiPietro's team of "I Wish This Microphone Was a Red October", who had 47 points. Congratulations to Francine, and I'll see you all again next Thursday night!
Red Trivia
1. What author wrote the best-selling novel "The Hunt For Red October?"
2. What actor/director won an Oscar for Best Director for the 1981 film "Reds?"
3. Which MLB team has won the most World Series in their history: the Red Sox or Reds?
4. Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding was a main character in what 1994 Oscar nominated film?
5. What two red card suits in a standard deck of cards are colored red?
6. What pop singer's 2012 album "Red" featured the hit song "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together?"
7. What Asian country's flag has a red circle centered on a green background?
Blue Trivia
1. What 19th century classical composer wrote "The Blue Danube?"
2. "True Blue" was a 1986 album by what pop singer?
3. What was the name of Paul Bunyan's Blue Ox?
4. John Popper was a member of what rock band?
5. "Blue Devils" is the nickname for what teams from what major university?
6. "Big Blue" is a nickname for what major American company?
7. Dennis Franz and Jimmy Smits starred in what 1980s TV crime drama?
The Q Train: Beer Brands Trivia (Name the Country)
1. St. Pauli Girl
2. Labatt's
3. Heineken
4. Yuengling
5. Carlsberg
6. Asahi
7. Guinness
8. Kronenbourg
9. Hoegaarden
10. Foster's
1. In "E.T.", what candy does Elliott leave a trail of for his alien friend? ( 1 pt)
2. What is the stretch of water between Russia and Alaska called? ( 1 pt)
3. Bruce Jenner won what athletic event at the 1976 Summer Olympics? ( 1 pt)
4. The oldest existing McDonald's restaurant is located in what US state? ( 2 pt)
5. What continent has most landlocked countries? ( 2 pt)
6. Between animal attacks, drowning and falling from heights, which is the number 1 cause of deaths at national parks? ( 2 pt)
7. What European country produces about 75% of the world's olive oil each year? ( 3 pt)
1. Who was the first actor to be nominated for an Oscar in which he portrayed 3 different characters in one film? ( 4 points)
2. What is the only country in Central America with English as its official language? ( 4 points)
3. What South American country had 5 different presidents over a span of 10 days in 2001? ( 5 points)
4. What 19th century US president officially dedicated the Statue of Liberty? ( 4 points)
5. What is the biggest holiday in the US every year in terms of greeting card sales? ( 3 points)
1. Tom Clancy; 2. Warren Beatty; 3. Red Sox (9-5); 4. The Shawshank Redemption; 5. Diamonds and Hearts; 6. Taylor Swift; 7. Bangladesh.
1. Johann Strauss; 2. Madonna; 3. Babe; 4. Blues Traveler; 5. Duke; 6. IBM; 7. NYPD Blue.
The Q Train: Beer Brands Trivia
1. Germany; 2. Canada; 3. Netherlands; 4. USA; 5. Denmark; 6. Japan; 7. Ireland; 8. France; 9. Belgium; 10. Australia.
1. Reese's Pieces; 2. Bering Strait; 3. Decathlon; 4. California; 5. Africa; 6. Drowning; 7. Spain.
1. Peter Sellers (Dr. Strangelove); 2. Belize; 3. Argentina; 4. Grover Cleveland; 5. Christmas.
"The Wax Pack: On The Open Road In Search of Baseb...


Joey Harrington Music
"A Local Favorite" – Asheville Citizen Times, "An All-Star Band" – Bob Hinkle, Co-Founder and Manager of the White Horse Black Mountain
Joey Harrington embraces his non-traditional musical education. His interest in music began at an early age, taking piano lessons in elementary school from a local pianist. His interest then turned towards playing guitar and electronic sample-based music before rediscovering his love for piano at a later age. After graduating from high school in 2010, Harrington spent five formative years pursuing his music and working in Minneapolis, Minnesota and then subsequently in Asheville, North Carolina. After returning to school, he graduated summa cum laude from UNC-Asheville in May of 2020 with both a B.F.A. in Jazz in Contemporary Music Performance and B.A. in History. Harrington studied with pianist Dr. Bill Bares while at UNC-Asheville.
Apart from being a hired free-lance musician, Joey plays in number of groups including the Joey Harrington Trio, the Wayne Banks Trio, Less Poets, Vermillion Quartet, and the Mouthbreathers. While at UNC-Asheville in 2019, Joey Harrington recorded his first album as leader, Lipinsky Sessions. The album is Spotify, iTunes, and other streaming services. Videos of the recording session can be peaked here! Harrington has also recorded with various other groups, most recently recording synthesizers for a MouthBreathers album in the summer of 2020.
In Asheville, North Carolina, Harrington played at venues throughout Western North Carolina including the Asheville Beauty Academy, Save Me The Waltz, The White Horse, The Mothlight, Oskar Blues Brewery, The Asheville Club, the Local 604, the 305 Lounge, Zambra, The Social Lounge, and Southern Appalachian Brewery among others. The performing schedule included various residencies at places including Antidote, the Asheville Club, Appalachian Coffee and the Battery Park Wine Bar (a two year weekly residence).
During the Covid pandemic, Harrington relocated to the New River Valley with his partner, Bow, who is pursuing her graduate studies. He has been immensely grateful to have the time to pursue his own artistic growth in the New River Valley while also being able to collaborate virtually with various artists.


Women's advocacy group calls on Spotify to remove Eminem, Chili Peppers, and other artists accused of sexual misconduct
"We implore you to take a deeper look at the artists you promote," reads UltraViolet's open letter
May 14, 2018 | 4:10pm ET
Last week, Spotify flexed its new hate content policy by removing the music of R. Kelly and XXXTentacion, two artists with a long history of sexual misconduct and domestic abuse, from its playlists and algorithmic recommendations. Now, women's advocacy group UltraViolet is urging the streaming giant to do the same with other artists accused of sexual abuse.
In an open letter, UltraViolet executive director Shaunna Thomas specifically calls out the likes of Chris Brown, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nelly, Eminem, Don Henley of The Eagles, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, Tekashi 6ix9ine, and Ted Nugent, citing them as artists "who continue to profit from your promotion."
"Every time a famous individual continues to be glorified despite allegations of abuse, we wrongly perpetuate silence by showing survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence that there will be no consequences for abuse," she writes. "That has a cultural effect far beyond one individual artist."
The hope is that Spotify taking a stand will inspire other music-streaming services to do the same.
While some of the artists on their list—Brown, Nelly, and Tekashi 6ix9ine, in particular—have had their allegations of misconduct make headlines recently, others have been forgotten by history. If you're wondering why artists like Tyler and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are listed, revisit Alex Young's essay, The Uncomfortable Disregard for Legendary Rockers' Sexual Misconduct, from last fall.
Don Henley
Alleged sexual abuse
Alleged Sexual Misconduct
Soft Cell Reunite for First Album in 20 Years
The Black Keys Announce New Blues Covers Album Delta Kream
Women's advocacy group calls on Spotify to remove Eminem, Chili Peppers, and other artists accused of sexual misconduct


Chinese star Fan Bingbing prepares for return – Daily Mail
PE Nation founder Pip Edwards shows off his trimmed and toned pins
10 best opening performances of all time, including Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé – USA TODAY
California says it's safe to use large numbers of Moderna vaccines paused after allergic reactions – San Francisco Chronicle
TREASURES – Prices changed little at start of Biden's presidency – Yahoo Finance
Opinion: The problem with Apple would have killed the touch bar of the MacBook Pro – 9to5Mac
Horry Scale: Cole Anthony beats the buzzer, Timberwolves from Deep – NBA.com
Roman Reigns on the Rock at WrestleMania 39 in Hollywood: "It makes sense" – Wrestling-Edge.com
Check out Weezer's video for the new song "All My Favorite Songs" – Pitchfork
SME loans present a significant potential risk for European banks – pymnts.com
talkSPORT Holds Exclusive Rights to English Tour to India and Announces World Class Team to Stream Iconic Cricket Series
Samsung Display to mass produce 90Hz OLED screens for laptops – ETTelecom.com
Original 'Walker, Texas Ranger' gathered San Antonio area cast for cast – San Antonio Express-News
Home » Chinese star Fan Bingbing prepares for return – Daily Mail
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Dishonored Chinese star Fan Bingbing fined nearly £ 100m for avoiding taxes, gears up for return after two-year hiatus
Fan, 38, is set to return to the spotlight after his explosive scandal in 2018
She was caught evading tax by Chinese officials
Chinese actress set to star in vintage £ 60m drama
Historic costume show to be broadcast on Chinese video site, source says
By Emilia Jiang for Mailonline
Posted: 2:17 p.m., May 29, 2020 | Update: 2:21 p.m., May 29, 2020
Chinese actress Fan Bingbing, who was involved in a tax evasion scandal of nearly £ 100 million two years ago, is set to return to the spotlight in a successful drama broadcast online.
'The Legend of Ba Qing', or 'Win the World', was due to debut in 2018, but has since been suspended after Fan, its lead actress, was found guilty of tax fraud and fined 800 million yuan (91 million pounds sterling). in 2018.
The sumptuous series of historic costumes is expected to be published soon on the Chinese video-sharing platform Youku, owned by the e-commerce giant Alibaba, Chinese media reported. The confirmed broadcast date remains unknown.
Disgraced actress Fan Bingbing (photo), 38, starred in " The Legend of Ba Qing ", or known as " Win the World ", a costume drama historical budget of 60 million pounds which takes place in the old Qin dynasty -206BC). The image on the left is a poster from the drama series
Nicknamed " the screen empress of China, " Fan has been ignored by the public since 2018 when the Chinese government ordered him to pay nearly 100 million pounds sterling (883 million yuan) in arrears. taxes and fines in October 2018. Fan is represented in an X-Men film in 2014: Days Of Future Past
Nicknamed " the screen empress of China ", Fan is best known in the West for her role in the 2014 blockbuster " X-Men: Days of Future Past ".
The dishonored 38-year-old superstar plays a leading role in " Win the World, " a historic, $ 60 million, costume drama set in the Old Qin Dynasty (221BC-206BC). It is apparently one of the most expensive series that China has produced by far.
The drama is based on the story of a historical figure, Ba Qing, played by Fan, a widow and a prominent Chinese entrepreneur woman. She helped Qin Shi Huang, the founder of the Qin dynasty and the first emperor who unified China, to finance the construction of the Great Wall.
But the hit drama was dropped when it was released two years ago after Fan and another prominent actor were both struck by scandals and public criticism.
Fan, also a model and producer, has been a household name ubiquitous in China for more than 20 years. She disappeared from the public eye in 2018 after allegations emerged that she had evaded taxes on a lucrative film shoot. She was once the highest paid actress in China
One of the biggest Chinese superstars Fan Bingbing (pictured right), who was involved in a tax evasion scandal of nearly £ 100 million two years ago, is expected to return to the spotlight in a successful drama broadcast online. The photo is a promotional poster for the show
In October 2018, the Chinese government fined Fan nearly £ 100 million (883 million yuan) after being found guilty of avoiding taxes.
Authorities added that the star could avoid prison terms if she paid on time, but not the actual amount of taxes the actress had dodged.
Gao Yunxiang, who plays Emperor Qin in the series, also faced violent reactions after being arrested in Sydney on charges of sexual assault in 2018.
In March, Australian courts acquitted Gao of five counts of sexual assault and two counts of indecent assault.
The blockbuster drama has been implicated in more controversy after its lead actor, Gao Yunxiang, another Chinese celebrity who also received public reactions after his arrest in Sydney on charges of sexual assault. Photo shows Gao's arrival in court last year
Since the tax evasion scandal, Fan has kept a low profile under the public radar. Last year, she made headlines in the Chinese media when she separated from Li Chen, her almost two-year-old actor fiance.
The news of Fan's return came after Tuesday the release of an internal document from the show's production company, discussing repayment terms with two Chinese TV stations that planned to broadcast the show initially.
According to the source who released the document, the drama of the period will likely be broadcast on Youku, a popular video-sharing platform owned by Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba. But there is no confirmed date for the series to air.
Who is Fan Bingbing?
She was China's richest celebrity and one of the highest paid actresses in the world
Fan Bingbing is one of the most famous actresses in China, who was fined nearly £ 100 million (883 million yuan) for avoiding taxes.
She mysteriously disappeared from public view in July 2018, after allegations appeared, she had evaded taxes on a lucrative film shoot – accusations denied by her studio.
The 38-year-old superstar has appeared in numerous romantic comedies and costumed dramas.
She has a brother 19 years younger than him who is also an actor.
Fan, also a model and producer, has been a ubiquitous name in China for more than 20 years and tasted Hollywood success with a role in the 2014 blockbuster " X-Men: Days of Future Past ".
She was the richest celebrity in China and one of the highest paid actresses in the world. His earnings were on par – if not more – with Hollywood celebrities, such as Emma Stone, Jennifer Aniston and Jennifer Lawrence.
In 2017, she dominated Forbes magazine's highest-paid list of Chinese celebrities with an income of 300 million yuan (£ 33 million), according to Forbes China.
But a September 2018 survey found that Chinese people thought the once popular actress had the weakest sense of social responsibility among her peers due to her scandal.
Compare QPR's "ugly" victory at shooting "not the most beautiful bird" and discuss the c ** k of Cristiano Ronaldo – the best quotes from Ian Holloway
Consumer spending pools in the United States; saves record – Reuters
PE Nation founder Pip Edwards shows off her trimmed and toned pins as she relaxes in her office after a...
Consumer spending pools in the United States; saves record - Reuters


AHUMADOS SABAL | Ahumados | Salazones | Pates
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Ahumados Sabal 2018 | Camino del Fus, 37, 46470 Massanassa | Diseño Web XINXETA
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CHATKA is the quintessential brand of the Russian Royal Crab. Due to its properties, texture and flavor it is probably the best seafood in the world.
The Russian Royal Crab, captured in the glacial waters of the Bering Sea, in the northern Pacific Ocean, near the Kamchatka Region and the neighboring waters of Alaska. Its striking size and its unique flavor made it begin to have a very valuable reputation to the point that in 1960 the Soviet Union decided to artificially introduce it into the Murmansk fjord, the Barents Sea, to provide new catches. A short time later it would be known worldwide as "THE RED ORO".
At more than 600 meters deep in the icy waters of the subarctic seas these exceptional creatures adapted perfectly to their new environment. The climatology, the unpredictability of its waters and the great difficulty in its capture (considering one of the toughest jobs in the world) has made this magnificent species develop and evolve to the point of becoming one of the best seafood in the world.
How to prepare CHATKA?
It is a completely fresh product, without additives or treatments, so you can eat directly from the purchased format; either frozen, tin or glass. Its flavor already speaks for itself and the size of red meat does not require more preparation than a good presentation. An aromatic mayonnaise, a spicy sauce based on habanero peppers (for the most daring) or a little lime (for those who like that acid touch) can be the perfect complement.
The Royal Crab can be enjoyed not only fresh. The abundance and flavor of its exclusive meat allows us to give a personalized touch to our most daily dishes.
A gourmet product with high nutritional value.
Recommended in low calorie diets, due to its low caloric content of only 103 Kcal / 100 grams. Its juicy and delicious meat has 20% proteins of high biological value and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega 3, of great importance in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It also provides vitamins B6 and B12 and is a source of minerals and trace elements such as potassium, iodine, phosphorus and zinc.
The Royal Crab is very appreciated by chefs from all over the world as it is a natural product with excellent gastronomic qualities.


Royal Society for Blind Children
Partner: Social Investment Business (SIB) group
Programme: Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme
When COVID-19 first took hold, the Royal Society for Blind Children was quick to realise its income was soon to be severely affected. With many of its fundraising events and payments from regular donors suspended, the charity saw a need to apply for financial support via the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).
Read what it had to say in this CBILS case study.
British Business Bank: Can you tell us what your organisation does?
Dr Tom Pey, CEO of the Royal Society for Blind Children: The Royal Society for Blind Children educates and supports blind and partially sighted children and young people and their families. Our founder Thomas Lucas set up a school to teach blind children to read in 1838. Today, nearly 200 years later, our team works across a range of services including family support, further education, social inclusion and independence skills.
The coronavirus has affected a huge number of businesses across the UK. What problems were you facing as a result of the outbreak and what made you apply for CBILS support?
When we first heard about the situation with COVID-19, we suspected immediately that we were going to have a drop off in unrestricted income of several hundred thousand pounds. This was due to the London Marathon being pushed back to October, delays with legacy notifications and payments from estates, community and fundraising activities being suspended, and fewer face-to-face sign-ups for giving regular donations.
How long did the application process take? Did you need any support?
The process from application to disbursal was 28 days. We needed some support with signing documents electronically, but once this was resolved and the documents were signed, the funds were with us in a very short period of time.
This turnaround time is just simply amazing. It demonstrates that the people who were underwriting the loan understood the scheme's criteria, the charity sector, and precisely how charity liquidity works.
The CBILS loan means we can be more confident about our liquidity in the short term. Rather than have to cut back, we're able to expand our reach, reduce the cost of delivering services, and increase customer engagement.
Dr Tom Pey, CEO of Royal Society for Blind Children
What advice would you give to other businesses that are applying for a CBILS loan?
If you're confident that the drop in income is temporary and it's going to bounce back fairly quickly, then clearly you're financing a gap and that's OK. However, you need to be sure that you can predict your future cashflows with confidence so that you don't default on the terms of the loan.
Many charities can be more certain about their future cashflows because they have a level of predictable income through regular donations. That said, they need to be careful that they don't use restricted income to repay debt. Such debt can only be paid from free reserves.
How has the CBILS loan helped your organisation to weather the outbreak? And what might have happened if you hadn't received it?
The CBILS loan means we can be more confident about our liquidity in the short term. It gives us a clear line of sight for 24 months, so rather than cutting back, we expanded our reach, reduced the cost of delivering services, and increased customer engagement.
Without the funding, given our short-term liquidity problems we would've had to downsize the services the charity provides.
Find out more about Royal Society for Blind Children
More case studies from Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme


HomeAnimalsDisgusting but interesting curiosities about mites
Present in mattresses, carpets and sheets, mites are among the main causes of allergic attacks, especially in children. But did you know that they are related to spiders? Did you know that there are species living even on your skin? Discover in the topics below some super interesting curiosities about these microscopic and problematic animals.
Mites are tiny animals belonging to the subclass Acari, of the arachnid class. A note: this is the same class as spiders.
The word Acari comes from the Greek "askaris", which means "small".
To date, 55,000 species of mites have been described, belonging to more than 500 families.
Mites live for two to three months, during which they mate once or twice. The laying ranges from 20 to 50 eggs.
Mites live in the most unexpected environments, from dust inside a house to the icy immensities of Siberia. There are species that live as parasites of plants and animals.
It is hard to believe, but there are two species that inhabit the human face.
Research on Demodex habits revealed that females lay giant eggs, corresponding to 1/3 or even half of their weight. Another curiosity: they have no anus, storing faeces in their bodies until they die.
Demodex causes very little damage to its hosts (humans), including the appearance of rosacea, a flush that mainly affects the face, evolving in many cases to permanent redness.
Household mites are so abundant that, just to have an idea, a square meter of the carpet has around 100,000 of them. They also represent 1/3 of the weight of an old pillow.
Household mites are responsible for causing various allergic diseases in humans, including rhinitis and asthma.
Another disease caused by the mite is scabies, popularly known as human scabies. It is transmitted by direct contact between people or by sharing clothes and / or accessories for everyday use.
Dust mites infest domestic animals more often than you think. They are, for example, transmitters of canine scabies. It causes itching so intense that it makes animals hurt themselves with their own paw. The detail is that scabies is a zoonosis transmitted from the pet to the human being.
Among the preventive measures against the infestation of domestic mites, it is worth remembering some: exposure to the sun of mattresses, comforters and blankets, constant exchange of pillows, frequent washing of carpets and treadmills; frequent washing of stuffed animals, and daily aeration of the environment. It should be remembered that to avoid mites in pets, it is always good to groom and use anti-mite shampoos.


Keleher & McLeod, P.A.
Gary J. Van Luchene
Shareholder and Director at Keleher & McLeod, P.A.
Albuquerque Plaza, 201 Third Street, N.W., Suite 1200, P.O. Box AA, Albuquerque, NM 87102
View Gary J. Van Luchene's office location
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Mr. Van Luchene's practice is primarily comprised of litigation with an emphasis on complex tort litigation, complex commercial litigation, and class actions. His experience includes defending toxic tort claims and a variety of personal injury claims. Mr. Van Luchene's commercial litigation expertise includes cases involving complex insurance, healthcare and banking issues. He has defended wrongful termination employment cases involving multiple plaintiffs. Mr. Van Luchene's extensive experience in defending against class actions includes defending putative class claims alleging wrongful banking practices, civil rights violations and denial of healthcare benefits. Mr. Van Luchene is of record in two reported New Mexico Court of Appeals opinions involving class action issues. He holds an AV Preeminent rating by Martindale-Hubbell.
Mr. Van Luchene has been honored as a Southwest Super Lawyer in 2014 and 2016. Mr. Van Luchene is listed in the practice areas of Commercial Litigation, Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions - Defendants (2017 "Lawyer of the Year" in Albuquerque) and Products Liability Litigation - Defendants. Mr. Van Luchene is a member of the CLM Alliance.
Gary J. Van
Luchene
Environmental and Natural Resources Law
www.Keleher-law.com
P.O. Box AA, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Arizona State University, B.S., 1986
California Western School of Law, J.D., cum laude, Executive Lead Articles Editor, California Western Law Review, 1992-1993, 1993
1996, U.S. District Court for New Mexico and U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit; 1995, New Mexico; 1994, California; 2003, United States Supreme Court
Professional Affiliations & Honors
Law clerk to Honorable Howard D. McKibben, U.S. District Judge, District of Nevada 1995-1996, and to Honorable Phyllis Halsey Atkins, U.S. Magistrate Judge, District of Nevada, 1993-1995. Defense Research Institute (Committee on Toxic Torts and Environmental Law). Mr. Van Luchene has been honored as a Southwest Super Lawyer in 2014 and 2016. Mr. Van Luchene is listed in the practice areas of Commercial Litigation, Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions - Defendants (2017 Lawyer of the Year in Albuquerque) and Products Liability Litigation - Defendants. Mr. Van Luchene is a member of the CLM Alliance.
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4.8/5.0 Rated by a Managing Partner on 08/29/16 in Civil Litigation
Gary is an excellent attorney, with outstanding legal abilities and the highest ethical standards.
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5.0/5.0 Rated by a Partner on 08/16/16 in Civil Litigation
Mr. Van Luchene is an excellent attorney. He zealously represents the interests of his clients while maintaining the highest degree of professionalism. It is always a pleasure working in a case with Mr. Van Luchene - even if we are on opposite side... Read more
Mr. Van Luchene is an excellent attorney. He zealously represents the interests of his clients while maintaining the highest degree of professionalism. It is always a pleasure working in a case with Mr. Van Luchene - even if we are on opposite sides of an issue. Read less
Albuquerque Plaza , 201 Third Street, N.W., Suite 1200 , P.O. Box AA
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7 moments in 'Harry Potter' movies that made you ugly cry
November 15, 2021, 12:53 PM ET
The Harry Potter series is full of magic and whimsy... and also heartbreak.
By Nivea Serrao
Photo: "Yer a wizard, Harry" | Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone / Wizarding World YouTube
Over the course of eight movies — and the seven books they're based on — the Harry Potter franchise has tugged at every (dragon) heartstring in fans' hearts as its titular hero's story has unfolded on the big screen. There have been many highs and plenty of lows as Harry and his friends have battled against Voldemort and his evil Death Eaters.
The first movie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, celebrates its 20th anniversary tomorrow, Nov. 16 (SYFY will be celebrating that and Wizarding World Week with a Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone marathon from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET). To help prepare for the big day, we're looking into our pensieve at some of the most memorable moments. Many of the ones that have stuck with fans, even all these years later, are ones that have brought tears to our eyes. Here, then, are the seven saddest moments from the Harry Potter movies.
7. When Harry first sees his parents in the Mirror of Erised in The Sorcerer's Stone
Perhaps one of the saddest aspects of the whole series is just how little Harry knows about his dead parents when it first begins, having not even been shown photos as he was growing up, as his Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia hated everything to do with magic. It's not until Hagrid first comes to get him that Harry learns more about Lily and James Potter and the kind of people they were. Later in the movie, when he discovers the Mirror of Erised, marks one of the first times that Harry ever gets to see what his parents (and extended family) look like, rather than just hearing about his resemblance to them from other people. It's made all the more bittersweet once Dumbledore reveals that the mirror simply shows people what their heart most desires. In Harry's case, it's simply to know what his parents would look like had they still been alive.
Photo: Amos and Cedric Diggory | Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire / Wizarding World YouTube
6. Amos Diggory crying over Cedric's dead body in The Goblet of Fire
Not only is Cedric one of the most decent and kindhearted characters in the world of Harry Potter, but from the moment you meet his father Amos, it's clear how much he loves his son and how proud he is of him — and not just because he's a head boy and Quidditch captain (though that probably helps). Cedric is fundamentally decent and would make any father proud — and this makes it doubly heartbreaking when Harry finally returns to Hogwarts with Cedric's dead body in tow. Amos' cry of anguish both conveys his shock and grief at this tragic discovery and reminds viewers of the many ramifications of Voldemort's return — that even Hogwarts is no longer safe, and that the characters you know and love are now in greater danger than they've ever been before.
5. Sirius Black passing through the veil in Order of the Phoenix
Uncovering the truth behind Sirius' imprisonment — and his subsequent escape — offered Harry something he hadn't quite had before: hope for a better life away from the Dursleys, with someone who truly loves him. As Harry's godfather, Sirius would have been able to guide him through the aspects of the wizarding world he knows nothing about, and serve as a link between Harry and his parents, as Sirius had been Harry's dad James' best friend, and was constantly telling Harry stories about their time together at Hogwarts. Sirius' death hits Harry hard because it's both quick and sudden as Bellatrix Lestrange first hits him with the killing curse, and then slow and painful as he fades away into the veil in the Department of Mysteries, right before Harry's eyes. It's yet another death Harry is forced to witness in his fight against Voldemort, but it's just as personal as the ones that started it all: the deaths of Harry's own parents.
Photo: Hermione Destroys Horcrux and Kisses Ron | Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Pt. 2 / Wizarding World YouTube
4. Hermione erasing her parents' memories in Deathly Hallows: Part 1
War is hard and requires many sacrifices — doubly so if you're dealing with witches and wizards who have the ability to steal anyone's appearance with a (not so simple) potion and apparate and disapparate anywhere they wish to. And with attacks against muggles on the rise with Voldemort's return, it's quite understandable for Hermione to want to protect her own parents. Still, it's pretty heartbreaking watching her erase her mom and dad's memories of her when they least expect it, as well as any traces of herself from her childhood home. Had anything happened to her during this final battle against Voldemort, her parents wouldn't have known, which is equally as painful.
Photo: Weasley's Wizard Wheezes | Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince / Wizarding World YouTube
3. Fred's death during the Battle at Hogwarts in Deathly Hallows: Part 2
While a lot of lives were lost at the Battle of Hogwarts, perhaps none hits as hard as Fred Weasley does. Ever since the Weasleys were introduced all the way back in Sorcerer's Stone, Fred and George have been an inseparable pair, constantly playing pranks and lightening the increasingly gloomy mood together with their jokes and ingenious inventions. But the loss of Fred means the Weasley family didn't make it out of the war unscathed — as they'd managed to the first time around when Voldemort first came to power. It's another loss that feels quite personal, perhaps because it's always been hard to imagine a world without either Fred or George, but now we're forced to have to face it, much like Harry and every other Weasley family member.
Photo: Peter Mountain/WireImage
2. When Hedwig dies while saving Harry in Deathly Hallows: Part 1
Ever since Harry's initial foray into Diagon Alley to buy school supplies, Hedwig the Owl has been his constant companion and his one connection to the wizarding world when he's stuck at Privet Drive over the summer. Even when Harry couldn't communicate with Ron and Hermione, Hedwig's presence offered some form of comfort. In this way, Hedwig's death truly marks the beginning of the end of Harry's childhood. While he's been facing off against Voldemort in some form or the other at different points in his life, the loss of Hedwig signals that this next battle might be his last and it's not just Harry himself who's in danger anymore, but anyone he might love as well.
Photo: Dobby is a Free Elf | Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets / Wizarding World YouTube
1. Harry realizes Dobby is dying in Deathly Hallows: Part 1
When we first meet Dobby the House Elf, he's risking punishment from the Malfoys as he's trying to keep Harry safe from the wicked plan they've hatched, even if his attempts are a bit misguided. This turns into a recurring theme with Dobby, even as he goes on to live as a Free Elf, while also doing whatever he can to aid Harry in the fight against Voldemort, even if he's not always the most successful. And it's why Dobby's death hits so hard at the end of Deathly Hallows: Part 1. Much like Harry, we've shed a lot of tears endured a lot of loss at this point, but Dobby is a reminder that in a world where Voldemort is quickly amassing power, there are plenty of people and creatures willing to stand up against him and fight by Harry's side, simply because they believe in doing the right thing in the face of Evil. When Dobby dies, it's because of something he chose to do: defending someone he considers his friend.
Accio! Click here to watch the 8-film saga.
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Leaked Docs Expose Media Matters Conspiring with Facebook & Google to Censor Alternative Media
Jay Syrmopoulos February 9, 2017
A leaked document from media matters details the informational warfare strategy being applied to alternative media to render is silent.
Washington, D.C. – A recently leaked briefing document from political operator David Brock's ultra-liberal, self-proclaimed media watchdog, Media Matters, has exposed the hard-left activist group conspiring with Facebook and Google to create a strategy to marginalize and ban political thought outside of the progressive neoliberal paradigm – essentially censoring libertarian and conservative political speech.
For those uninitiated, Brock is the key cog in the hard-left neo-liberal political media attack machine that attempts to propagandize the public into accepting a progressive political narrative as fact. Essentially, Brock acts as the tip of the spear in the left's culture war – forwarding a divide and conquer paradigm based largely on identity politics.
To give some perspective into this strategy one need only look back to the teachings of ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu and his seminal treatise, The Art of War. He proposed that indirect warfare is one of the most efficient ways of fighting an enemy. It allows an opponent to defeat their adversary without directly engaging them, thereby saving themselves the resources that would have to be expended in a direct confrontation.
This dynamic of indirect warfare is clearly at work, as the hallmarks of an information war are unmistakable in Media Matters methodology and approach described in the leaked document.
The employment of hybrid warfare will unmistakably be marked by "protests," as we have already seen in the form of "The Women's March," and insurgents, such as the Anitfas presence at the UC-Berkley riots. Fifth columns, such as Media Matters, will be formed by non-state actors, like Brock, which publicly behave as civilian organizations, but operate with vested political motives and strategic militant-like precision. Social media and similar technologies will come to replace precision-guided munitions as the "surgical strike" capability of the aggressive party, and chat rooms and Facebook pages will become the new "militants' den."
Besides the tactical advantages of this hybrid warfare, there are also strategic ones as well. In this case, indirect warfare, in the form of information warfare, is clearly being employed in an effort to destabilize any messages that are outside of the neoliberal globalist paradigm.
The leaked briefing book, entitled "Media Matters: The Top Watchdog Against Fake News and Propaganda — Transforming the Media Landscape" (obtained exclusively by the Free Beacon) was privately published by Brock in January to solicit donors, and lays out the strategy for controlling the U.S. media narrative.
The briefing book advances the narrative of "Fake News," which actually began with Media Matters, and reveals Brock is attempting to launch what the hard-left calls "a meme." A "meme" is essentially a narrative designed to discredit news organizations that dare report from anything other than a neoliberal perspective. The goal is to discredit any organization that doesn't toe the neoliberal line.
The main thrust of this narrative Brock is forwarding is to paint anyone who opposes the neoliberal agenda as "alt-right" – with a direct implication that they are racist, anti-Semitic, or misogynistic. It must be noted that this blanket term is used to intentionally marginalize anyone that disagrees with their ideological stance. Make no mistake that conflating neo-Nazis and racists, with constitutionalists, libertarians and conservatives is a strategic maneuver meant to marginalize the voice of large segments of the U.S. population.
Brock implicates both Google and Facebook as co-conspirators in forwarding this "Fake News" narrative against independent media organizations like The Free Thought Project.
Brock clearly articulates this strategy, as laid out on page two of his briefing book:
"Over the next four years, Media Matters will focus on achieving the following outcomes:
"Serial misinformers and right-wing propagandists inhabiting everything from social media to the highest levels of government will be exposed.
"Internet and social media platforms, like Google and Facebook, will no longer uncritically and without consequence host and enrich fake news sites and propagandists.
"Toxic alt-right social media-fueled harassment campaigns that silence dissent and poison our national discourse will be punished and halted."
This clear attempt to consolidate control over the informational narrative Americans are exposed to is dangerous, and nothing less than a true threat to freedom. In essence, Brock is attempting to create a more effective "propaganda model," as forward by academic Noam Chomsky, to prevent people having any perspective outside of the one the hard-left wants seen by the public — using social media as the weapon.
The narrative of "fake news" had a creeping, but clear, drive to delegitimize alternative media outlets, such as us here at The Free Thought Project, likely due to our reporting on U.S. hegemony/imperialism and topics like the contents of WikiLeaks' releases of the DNC and Podesta emails during the election – while the mainstream media largely refused to do so.
Revealing the origins of this soft-censorship regime, Lachan Markay reported in the Washington Free Beacon that during the 2016 presidential campaign Media Matters launched a petition drive aimed at pressuring Facebook into prohibiting "fake News" websites and to "adjust its model to stem the flow of damaging fake news from its platform pages."
There was a clear trickled down agenda enacted after a secret post-election meeting of progressive elites with the Democratic Alliance, co-founded by Soros in 2005, with Media Matters acting as the propaganda arm by issuing a press release about "fake news"– and, like clockwork, numerous publications, such as the Washington Post, began running articles about "fake news."
In the leaked briefing book, Brock acknowledged that Google was a relatively easy sell on the "fake news" narrative, but Facebook was a much harder sale — with Mark Zuckerberg initially calling the notion that "fake news is a problem" is "crazy."
So, how did Media Matters handle this?
According to the briefing documents:
"In November, we launched a campaign pressuring Facebook to: 1) acknowledge the problem of the proliferation of fake news on Facebook and its consequences for our democracy and 2) commit to taking action to fix the problem."
Brock subsequently reported that "as a result of our push for accountability," Facebook would now toe the neoliberal/globalist line and implement a soft-censorship regime under the guise of ridding Facebook of "fake news."
In the wake of this full-court press by the neoliberal establishment, President Obama disingenuously proclaimed "fake news" a threat to our democracy during a speech in Berlin. In turn, Mark Zuckerberg caved to the pressure and announced a fact-checking regime, laughably announcing the use of Politifact, Snopes and ABC News to fact-check and flag disputed stories — which would then result in disputed stories being given a lower algorithm ranking, thus not as often appearing in people's newsfeeds.
Make no mistake that this is simply an attempt by the corporate oligarchy to regain control of the informational gates of society, which they have lost due to the rapid rise of social media, in an effort to soft-censor any dissenting world views.
Brock believes that the only truth is that which supports a neoliberal-globalist agenda, and that all other points of view must be marginalized. It's painfully obvious that Media Matters, Brock and his oligarchic ilk have no respect for free speech, as they attempt to create an echo chamber for neoliberal globalism, while attempting to silence all other voices.
These actions, by the oligarchic left, are simply war by other means.


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The "Terrazas del Lago" project by Morph Estudio uses KRION as a Ventilated Facade
The "Terrazas del Lago" project by César Frías Enciso and Miguel Pradillo of Morph Estudio, won the Best Completed Project award at the 11th PORCELANOSA Architecture and Interior Design Awards, whose panel was made up of prestigious professionals Luis Vidal, Rebecca Jones, Ricardo Mateu, Pierre-Yves Rochon and Rafael Robledo.
Both Morph Estudio and developer Inmoglaciar have seen the project grow, in around 7 years expanding from a sketch to an iconic building in the province of Madrid. Next to the lake of Valdebebas and facing the Felipe VI park in Valdebebas (Madrid), this residential complex is found, made up of 83 residences of 1 to 5 bedrooms, having obtained the A energy rating, in which the materials of PORCELANOSA Group have helped to achieve this high qualification.
At first glance we find a curved facade with a uniform texture which breaks with the typical design of horizontal strips, the 5,200 square metres of KRION 1100 Snow White being the prominent material in the building. For this work, the K-FIX construction system (from the Group's company Butech) was used for attaching KRION to this ventilated facade.
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This Could Be A…Breath of Fresh Air
CLEAN AIR NOW!
Air pollution is an invisible enemy – killing 9,000 Londoners early every year. The brief drop in traffic levels during the coronavirus lockdown gave us a glimpse of what life could be like with less congestion and cleaner air. Around the world, cities are now taking inspirational steps to prioritise the needs of people above cars, with pedestrianised areas and new cycling provision. Let's seize this moment to do something amazing in Wanstead too. We've come up with some quick and simple ways you can help put pressure on Redbridge Council and the Government to get their act together and deal with the problem of air pollution. Imagine Wanstead less choked up with traffic. It could be a breath of fresh air.
Dirty air is estimated to cause 40,000 early deaths a year in the UK, and the London Assembly says the capital's toxic air is a public health crisis. Exposure to air pollution stunts the growth of children's lungs and increases the chance of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and other illnesses. Now evidence is mounting that it is linked to increased Covid-19 infections and death rates according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The main cause of air pollution in London is traffic. The quieter streets, cleaner air and lower noise levels that lockdown brought have been welcomed across Wanstead. We have been able to breath more easily, smell the freshness of the air and better hear bird song for the first time. Many cities, including areas of central London, have recently and quickly made expanded cycle ways or traffic-free streets to make cycling safer and reduce crowding on pavements and on public transport. But so far, sadly not in Redbridge. Cycling is a way to travel with lower risk of Coronavirus infection than public transport, however, understandably, many people are put off getting on their bike due to the lack of traffic-free safe cycleways. The danger is that people will start to drive more to avoid infection, worsening air quality and putting health at risk in other ways.
In Redbridge, cycling provision is far poorer than in other boroughs, and cycleways – especially safe cycleways where riders are separated from the traffic – are few and far between. There is a noticeable deterioration in safe cycling options when cycling from Waltham Forest to Redbridge, for example. While Redbridge Council has shown intention to improve matters and is currently undertaking a consultation (which we encourage all to contribute to), the more pressure that is exerted on them by residents, the higher safe cycling will move up the agenda. Many schemes can be done at low cost. Others will require major funding. However, the health of all of us and especially our children is at stake.
5 SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO NOW:
Contribute your ideas to the Redbridge Council survey on healthier and safer streets at https://redbridgetravelmap.commonplace.is/. You can comment specifically on where in Wanstead you'd like to see cycleways and reductions in traffic.
Write to our MP Ask our Wanstead MP, John Cryer, what action he is taking to keep our air clean by emailing him this letter: https://bit.ly/write-to-your-mp-air-pollution or just drop him a quick note at john.cryer.mp@parliament.uk
Join many others around Wanstead by not using the car for local journeys and traveling by foot, bike or scooter instead.
Join Wanstead Climate Action and help us campaign locally (email us at wansteadclimateaction@gmail to find out more or join our group). You may have recently seen our distinctive yellow and black posters around Wanstead which point out areas that could be safe cycle lanes, safe cycle storage and electric bike hubs. Join the campaign by downloading and posting these in the appropriate spots. Get in touch for our guide to posting and let us know how you get on afterwards!
final-safe-cycle-lane.psd4_Download
final-this-could-be-an-electric-cycle-hub-2.psd1_Download
final-safe-cycle-storage.psd1_Download
Got kids? Check out the great work by Mums for Lungs https://www.mumsforlungs.org
Click to access air_quality_for_public_health_professionals_lb_redbridge.pdf
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jun/16/coronavirus-uk-has-legal-duty-to-review-air-pollution-targets-say-lawyers
https://tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/improvements-and-projects/streetspace-for-london#on-this-page-0
https://redbridgetravelmap.commonplace.is/


North Korea Has Got It
North Korean military members setting up the Hwasong-14 ICBM for its successful test launch on Friday night, with Kim Jong-un watching. July 28, 2017.
Last night on July 28, North Korea asserted, validated, and demonstrated an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) capability to strike the United States of America and most of its major cities to the world at large (Link). This mobile, liquid fueled ICBM – called the Hwasong-14 – showed a re-entry vehicle that had North Korean nuclear weapon capacity is size and weight in the shroud of what was separated and propelled from a two stage missile to a apogee of 3,700 km, with a 47 minute flight time, which then re-entered the atmosphere at the proper angle into the Sea of Japan (Watch video, from Mainland Japan, believed to be of the missile descending into the Sea of Japan) for a safe re-entry and landing on the earth's surface. The conservative range estimate of this North Korean Hwasong-14 mobile ICBM capability is around 9,500 km when put in an operational and energy efficient trajectory, proving most of the United States' major cities are within range.
Earlier this month, on July 4th, this exact same mobile ICBM – with no technical differences to the one launched last night on the 28th of July – was flown to an apogee of 2,800 km and 39 minutes of flight time, demonstrating an operational range to strike Alaska and Hawaii. The ICBM capability and the range to strike Hawaii from the July 4th test was mistakenly doubted by Russia (Link) and open press sources that stated that this ICBM was not a ICBM nor was it clearly in range of Hawaii. North Korea clearly on its first test of this missile, the mobile Hwasong-14 on July 4th, controlled the liquid fuel burn in the first state of less altitude and less time to mitigate risk for success of its maiden flight.
Though quotes from the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Chairman of the United States (Link), the Vice Chairman of the JCS (Link) and the United States Army Chief of Staff (Link) have alluded to the North Korea ICBM nuclear threat to the United States of America. The United States President and his National Security Council have not yet defined and acknowledged publicly to the American people the actual North Korean ICBM nuclear threat and capability to the United States of America, thereby being continually constrained by outdated U.S. policy that has failed in the prevention of a North Korean nuclear ICBM capability and underplaying the severity and reality of the North Korean Nuclear ICBM capability to the American public.
It is of absolute valid merit now and for the national security of the United States, and the leadership of this country accept the full responsibility of a North Korea Nuclear ICBM capability and change our current policy towards North Korea from prevention to a new policy of defense and deterrence against a rouge, nuclear capable, enemy nation to the United States of America. For if this is not resolved clearly and decisively by the President of the United States, then there will continue to be instability degradation of status quo, the strategic balance will be in jeopardy, and nuclear proliferation becomes a reality for both our allies and foes. The safety of the United States people is at stake.
We need to provide more resources for more missile defense capability and capacity, while enabling their capabilities to their full potential for the United States of America, all of its people and its allies in the region to bring stability and clear intent that the United States will not be held nuclear hostage from any nation. We need to integrate all of our missile defense capability and capacity with our offensive force from all of our domains and leap to next generational missile defense capability to include directed energy, electronic and algorithmic warfare in the third offset. All of these options above are limited by today's United States policy on missile defense, that needs to be changed for the National Security of the United States and for the global stability of the world which we live in.
We need to be strong, we need to lead and we need to protect our people, the very best we can from a rouge nation with nuclear ICBMs, that will be setting a precedent for others to follow.
Yes, North Korea is for real and yes, we as a nation must accept it, defeat it and provide clear intent of no tolerance for nuclear rouge nation capacity or capability in setting the stage for a safer world.


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We are MGP
A boutique San Francisco-based PR firm specialized in emerging technologies, where story and strategy unite.
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We think the world of PR is broken however, and in desperate need of a reboot.
In an industry full of "spray and pray," we believe highly strategic PR is the only way.
Always on and with our antenna always up, we relentlessly and passionately pursue the "What If?" with remarkable bandwidth and agility.
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We are masters of simplifying the complex and making the difficult look easy – all with graceful persistence.
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Mindy M. Hull
Tara Hill
Colleen Wickwire
Senior PR Consultant
Ginny Cain
Natalee Gibson
Allie Gavan
Hannah Martin
Kayla Bortak
Carla Richardson
Erin Lumley
Antonio Hicks
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My Superpower
Transmutation
Kayla brings extensive B2B and B2C PR experience in enterprise/SaaS, cloud, fintech, mobile IoT, robotics and consumer tech to her role as Senior Account Manager, where she manages the day-to-day activity for multiple accounts and works proactively to ensure client KPIs and deadlines are met.
Highly skilled at moving PR strategies forward through media and analyst outreach, Kayla excels at simplifying concepts, elevating basic content, and writing for both consumer and business audiences. Her carefully crafted pitches consistently result in tier-one media coverage as well as press meetings at key tech conferences including CES and MWC.
Lured by the opportunity to work with dolphins, sharks and whales, Kayla worked previously at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, helping scientists and engineers translate their research into public-ready stories. Prior to that time, she held the role of Account Manager and Account Executive at Mercury Global Partners. Prior to MGP, Kayla worked for SpilledINK, a boutique agency where she helped manage accounts including PrimeSense (acquired by Apple in November 2013), OpenNI, Democrats Abroad 2012, and Catchoom.
Based in South Florida, Kayla enjoys taking walks outside between November and March and being inside the rest of the year. She insists that it is "not too hot in Florida". Her idea of a good vacation is one planned around tasty eats.
Provocative Persuader
Antonio Hicks possesses over a decade of communications and branding success. Having worked across diverse industries including B2B and B2C technology, gaming, sports, entertainment and consumer lifestyle, Antonio's experience is a consummate public relations, communications and brand expert.
Prior to joining MGP, Antonio led marketing and communications for StreamLabs, the number one streaming software and platform used by today's top streamers on Twitch, Facebook, YouTube, Mixer and more. During his tenure at StreamLabs, Antonio built the company's brand and messaging, consistently raised the company profile via coverage in top-tier outlets such as The New York Times, TechCrunch and VentureBeat, and also produced and curated StreamLabs' highly successful presenting conference, Expanding the Stream, an invite-only day summit featuring the best and brightest from the video gaming, eSports, social media, and streaming companies.
Antonio previously worked for Spark PR, where he launched numerous Silicon Valley start-ups and product introductions into the market, including: the world's first 3D body scanner, the Naked Fit; the newest intro to supersonic travel from Boom Technology, Boom Supersonic, along with some of the most innovative technology startups across multiple verticals such as health and fitness, e-commerce, mobile gaming, VR and smart home.
Prior to Spark PR, Antonio served as PR Manager for Seattle Theatre Group, the largest performing arts organization in the Pacific Northwest region, where he managed PR for hundreds of performances annually, and also created and launched STGtv, a premiere video platform on YouTube and Amazon Fire.
Earlier in his career, Antonio worked for New York-based boutique firm, Estabrook Group, where he worked closely with high-profile professional athletes, celebrities and media companies to develop and build their brand, including the number one athlete in the world, LeBron James and NFL superstar, Terrell Owens. His work with Fortune 500 companies includes Microsoft Branded Entertainment, Bing Search, and Reveille (producer of the Emmy-Award Winning shows Ugly Betty, The Tudors, and The Biggest Loser.)
Based in San Francisco and with a passion for storytelling, technology and the arts, Antonio enjoys digging deep to find the best story angles to pitch reporters that will resonate with their audiences. In his spare time, Antonio likes to travel the world, explore his passion for cooking and kitchen gadgets, enjoy fine dining in San Francisco, and catch what's playing at the Yerba Buena Arts Center.
Marketing Maven
Ginny Cian
Ginny has more than 25 years of diversified experience in all aspects of online and offline marketing, with the last 10 years in financial services-related industries including real estate technology, residential real estate services, new home building, mortgage lending, retail operations and technology, ABA and joint venture mortgage relationships.
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Ginny cut her teeth in public relations in the Silicon Valley handling high tech clients in the 90s. Prior to MGP, Ginny founded and ran her own marketing consultancy firm, Cain Communications, where she worked with a variety of clients in the tech, real estate and mortgage industries. She also previously served as VP of marketing for several top 10 nationally ranked real estate brokerages, including Alain Pinel Realtors and Prudential California, Texas and Nevada realty.
A 360-degree marketer, Ginny understands that a client's needs often include everything from public and community relations and advertising to web content and online marketing. She has a vision around the 360-degree concept and the experience to back up the vision.
Ginny holds a bachelor's degree in business marketing form Cameron University in Oklahoma. She's also an incessant Francophile and a weekend gourmet.
Media Hound
Colleen is a communications professional with more than 13 years' experience – including broadcast TV, in-house and agency PR – working with an extensive range of enterprise, consumer tech and lifestyle brands. She is responsible for developing and executing marketing and communications strategies for clients. Her specialties include campaign and product launch planning, messaging and content creation, integrating traditional and social media strategies, and providing executive-level counsel and event planning.
Colleen is highly accomplished at building productive relationships with both traditional media and key vertical influencers via an integrated approach to PR and social media. She has worked with an extensive range of B2B and B2C companies throughout her career including Meebo, Mobclix (acquired by Velti), Yodlee, Google, Inbenta, Sony Online Entertainment, Favado App (Savings.com), FabKids (acquired by JustFab), Tindog, Social Gaming Network (SGN), Bunchball, JustAnswer, Coupon Craze and SmartyPig.
Based in San Francisco, Colleen has an insatiable appetite for discovering new music and local restaurants and recently completed a month-long excursion in Patagonia. On sunny days, you can almost certainly find her at the beach with her dog, Bruce.
Social Star
As an Account Coordinator, Hannah is responsible for supporting the MGP account teams across the entire client base. Her responsibilities include building media lists, drafting content, executing reports, researching events and awards and performing valuable competitive media research. She is also charged with social media execution for MGP and its clients to draw attention to them, enhance client messaging while remaining true to vision, and deepen engagement with followers and industry influencers.
Prior to joining MGP, Hannah worked in the restaurant industry and also dabbled in social media across multiple platforms. A recent graduate of BYU – Idaho with a bachelor's degree in psychology, Hannah is passionate about her Corgi, Brie, and enjoys food, photography, and traveling in her free time.
PR Swiss Army Knife
Erin is a PR and social media professional with more than 20 years of B2B and B2C experience, spanning a variety of sectors including mobile, telecom, transportation, AR/VR, fintech, education, cloud, connected home, IoT, travel and enterprise. Her expertise runs wide and deep: developing and executing PR strategies for clients, competitive analysis, messaging, media relations, analyst relations, content and blog creation, social media campaign development and media training.
Erin has worked with companies at every stage of their lifecycle – startups, mid-market and globally traded companies – including AltspaceVR, Autodesk, Automatic, Glu Mobile, Salesforce, Sidecar, Slacker Radio, StudyMode, WorldMate and Xirrus. Earlier in her career, she spent time in Sydney, Australia gaining valuable overseas experience and working with numerous global telecom companies. She's since gone on to work with companies all over the world including Israel, Japan, Mexico, France, the Netherlands, the U.K. and the U.S.
An expert at securing media coverage, Erin has landed clients in numerous broadcast, consumer, technology and business publications, i.e. CNBC, The Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, The Verge and USA Today. She's also placed a wealth of contributed content over the years in VentureBeat, Forbes, WIRED and the podcast, USA Today's Deep Dive.
Erin hold a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Chico State, and was certified in social media by the University of San Francisco.
A lifelong Bay Area native, Erin is a self-proclaimed news junkie, world traveler and enjoys reading, wine tasting and visiting farmers markets. She loves taking her puppy to Crissy Field and watching her eat sand.
Word Warrior
Based in Idaho, Tara brings her passion for writing to her role as account executive and is a frequent content marketing author (bylines, blogs, case studies) for MGP clients. A "Jill of all trades", Tara plays a critical role in driving content marketing for clients, media outreach and reporting, managing award and speaker submission drafts and sell-in, drafting media briefing books, executing impactful social media campaigns, conducting media research, building client reports and more.
Tara recently graduated from Brigham Young University – Idaho, where she earned a bachelor's degree in PR and communications. Her love of gymnastics began at an early age and has evolved into a love of dance – particularly ballroom dance with her husband. They've mastered the "swan lift"! Tara enjoys all things beautiful and is also an accomplished harpist.
Creative Ninja
Carla's communications experience spans both B2C and B2B PR. Her daily activities include media relations, expertly managing product reviews campaigns, managing events and awards, developing content (bylines, blog posts, press releases) and supporting the team on executing clients PR strategies. Carla skills also encompass overseeing MGP's social media channels and beautiful design work for MGP and its clients.
Prior to joining MGP, Carla worked for a broadcast PR agency based in London, where she focused on generating creative ideas for broadcast strategies to raise awareness for brands across TV, radio and online media. She also spent three years working in the wine industry for a wine supplier specialized in organic and biodynamic wines, where she earned a qualification in winemaking.
Based in Barcelona, Carla enjoys food, wine and travel, will say hello to every dog she encounters, and has a particular fondness for the autumn season.
Media Magician
An accomplished, results-driven PR professional, Allie brings extensive B2C consumer tech and lifestyle PR experience to her role of Senior Account Manager at MGP. Her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional client service is complemented by her expertise in media relations, media training, message development, integrated brand strategy, creative campaigns and producing high profile launch events. As a result, Allie continuously raises the visibility of clients on a national scale, garnering media placements in top-tier outlets and recognition through top industry awards.
A media relations specialist and expert communicator, Allie has a knack for identifying and securing unique press opportunities for both emerging and established brands. The depth of tier one media coverage she's recently secured for clients includes The TODAY Show, Digital Trends, CNET, WIRED, The New York Times, Forbes, MacWorld, CNNMoney, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Men's Journal, O – The Oprah Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler.
Prior to joining MGP, Allie consulted for several consumer tech companies including Prynt, Petcube and HoundLabs Inc. as well as numerous wine and spirits brands and organizations, including Kobrand Wine & Spirits, Lucas Bols, and the Court of Master Sommeliers. Prior to consulting, Allie directed the consumer group at Cinch PR in San Francisco, where she led accounts including Kenu (from the founders of Joby), Jackson Family Wines, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Viceroy Hotels, Proper Hotels, and Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, amongst others. Earlier in her career, Allie worked for Know Public Relations in Washington, D.C., where she delivered strategic communication services for leading culinary brands and personalities, including Bravo's "Top Chef All-Stars" runner-up, Chef Mike Isabella, celebrity Chef Art Smith's Art and Soul in The Liaison Capitol Hill, famed Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's J&G Steakhouse in the W Hotel – Washington, and Chef Todd Gray's Equinox and Muse at The Corcoran Gallery of Art. Allie earned her bachelor's degree in Corporate Communication from the School of Media Arts and Design at James Madison University.
Based in Orange County, Allie is a fitness enthusiast and cardio dance instructor, who loves skiing, wine tasting and exploring SoCal with her husband and young daughter.
Firestarter & Rainmaker
As CEO, Mindy is responsible for the overall strategy, vision and direction of MGP, including operations, business development, marketing and PR. With more than 25 years of B2B and B2C experience, Mindy has defined the strategy and run successful programs for numerous seed-stage startups, challenger brands and publicly traded market leaders, catapulting them onto the global stage and playing a significant role in helping many of them to exit.
Mindy's sector experience runs wide and deep – AI, VR/AR, gaming, mobile (devices, apps, messaging, security, analytics), IoT/smart home, consumer tech, cryptocurrency/blockchain, sleeptech, adtech/martech, fintech, cybersecurity, 3D sensors, edtech, enterprise/SaaS/big data, ecommerce and more. She specializes in new product launches, playing an active role in propelling startups and challenger brands onto the global stage. Throughout her career, Mindy has built strong relationships with journalists, analysts and conference organizers, alike – consistently winning media coverage in some of the most respected tier-one global media and annually placing clients as speakers at highly regarded conferences such as Mobile World Congress, CES and SXSW.
Prior to founding MGP, Mindy spent time in senior-level roles in the media/publishing sector at the Financial Times, E.W. Scripps Co. and Inman News Group.
A California native, Mindy can usually be found with a can of La Croix sparkling water or cup of green tea in hand. She has a proclivity for travel, gourmet cooking, wine, music, weekend excursions with her husband, and a warm spot in her heart for The Netherlands.
Wonder Woman 
As Managing Director, Natalee is responsible for creating overall client strategy and ensuring that all PR campaigns map to both the short and long term goals of each MGP client. She brings a wide breadth of global PR experience to her role, representing companies at every stage of the business lifecycle – from startups to the Fortune 100. With more than 17 years of PR experience, Natalee has cultivated strong relationships with members of the media, important industry conferences and influential market analysts. Her B2B and B2C sector expertise spans AI, mobile, VR/AR, automotive, adtech and marketing tech, fintech, hardware (including test & measure), big data, enterprise/SaaS and more.
Natalee began her career in journalism and brings a unique reporter perspective to her PR approach. Prior to joining MGP, she served as vice president of SF-based PR firm, Incendio International, where she represented large companies such as Flextronics International, Sun Microsystems, Sanmina-SCI, as well as young startups including Soft Kinetic, Taulia and FollowAnalytics. She holds a bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism and political science from Brigham Young University.
Based in Denver, Natalee is a prolific writer, avid cyclist and sometimes triathlete who loves to travel the world with her husband and two kids.