Cheb i Sabbah: 'Krishna Lila' and Everything Else
Written by Gaurav Malhotra
More about this Artist
Cheb i Sabbah started spinning in Paris during 1964, and by 1968 had hooked up with The Living Theatre where he made some of the earliest attempts at turning the spinning of discs into an art form. Then in the late '80s he became a fixture on the club scene in San Francisco through his 1001 Nights. In recent history he has released two albums Shri Durga and Mahamaya - and is now in the process of releasing Krishna Lila. A man with so much experience and talent and yet, he actually responded to my request for an interview. I couldn't believe it. So here it is, ENJOY!
AV: Lets start with how you got into music back when you started?
CiS: Well I come from a family of musicians, so there was a lot of music around. But, I never learnt or played an instrument myself. Being around music all that time I decided being a dj would be much easier than learning an instrument myself (laughs). So I became a dj when I was seventeen. So from there I started spinning and when I wasn't spinning I was working in theater - so I was always involved with music and musicians.
AV: Is this the time you were involved with the Living Theatre?
CiS: Yes, that was set up in Europe and New York City. So I was touring Europe and the States all the time.
AV: So was it traveling with them that got you to San Francisco?
CiS: No, I went there by myself and started a theater group there, called Tribal Warning Theatre. And that's when I really started to do soundtracks for theater. I started with using one of those Tascam, cassette four-track thing and then moved on to an eight track. At that time industrial music was really big. So through this experience I learnt how to mix and match a lot of different samples and sounds but as a theater soundtrack. The music I was producing was cued up to the actors and actresses on stage so as to play precise sounds and music along with the performance.
AV: So you were using the MIDI concept before it was even a viable option?
CiS: Yes, precisely. The soundtrack contained not just the music but also effects that one couldn't do in a live performance. It was all cued up on tape. Also along, with that I was using a lot of multimedia; slides, fires and things to that affect - a little bit ahead of its time.
AV: So did that theater lead you to set up 1002 Nights?
CiS: No, that came later when I stopped doing that theater and went back into spinning again.
AV: What caused that change why did you switch back again?
CiS: It was easier, and you weren't too dependent on other people showing up on time (laughs). I mean theater didn't pay too much money so it was very hard to get people motivated. So spinning gave me a chance to be involved with music and be creative also. So along with spinning I loved this concept of putting on live shows along with the music - using people from different continents and to present these artists within their elements culturally and musically and it has been very successful. So far there have been 56 concerts done.
AV: So the show is almost a theatrical performance?
CiS: Well no, we might have artists performing or have them do dances but the concept was the five senses. There would eating, tasting, smelling - we had food available. Completely based on the five senses.
AV: So how is the name 1002 Nights related? What does that signify?
CiS: Well it came from 1001 Nights, the famous novel. I just added one night so as to not confuse with the book (laughs).
AV: Changing gears here, since your philosophy for working on music that is foreign to you is that you learn by going to the people who live and practice that tradition, so what exactly is your role when the final product is laid down?
CiS: Well my role is mainly production, manipulation, adaptation and mixing. I don't play any instruments so I let people who know how to do that do that. Considering the kind of people I have been working with I can't pretend that I will be able to add anything with my hands or my voice. So what I do is start with an idea, from that I produce the musicians in the studio with a certain concept, a specific raga or composition and once its done and recorded then I take that and on top of that I add my work.
AV: So you must have some knowledge of Hindustani, Muslim music for you to know which raga or composition to work from?
CiS: Yes, but all from listening not playing. One develops a listener's ear that I think is as important to composing music as a player's.
AV: So lets talk about Shri Durga a bit. That's, a very devotional title considering it's the name of a Hindu goddess - why that title, considering the album consists of both Hindu - Muslim musical elements and singers.
CiS: Well having spent a lot of time with Ustad Salamat Ali Khan I knew they used to do raga durga all the time, so we actually started with that raga when starting the album. So with that I decided to do the whole album around Durga - that idea was kind of in and out - considering "Kese Kese" a love song doesn't have anything to do Durga. As far as the Hindu Muslim aspect is concerned, I am Jewish from an Arab land, I kind of have the same perspective when trying to figure out how does one unify or how does one work out this problem between Hindus and Muslims and, Jews and Muslims - so the idea was that it can be done through music, at least where I come from you always see Jews and Muslims playing together and in India it's the same thing. So using both the artists and the elements was an attempt to present that aspect which I thought was important.
AV: So the remix cd MahaMaya was that released because Shri Durga itself was not a very dance club sound album?
CiS: No, actually what happened there was that Aki at Nation Records knew half of the remixers out in England so it was an easy thing to set up. I personally knew Bally Sagoo and Aki had deals and records with TJ Rehmiand Transglobal Underground. The idea was basically to do a remix album - all the artists who remixed it seems that they really liked Shri Durga and thought it was very innovative. Aki actually told me that he had been considering making an album like Shri Durga but since I had already done it he didn't have to do it any more (laughs). I think at the time everyone one was sampling South Asian sounds in England and for someone to actually use live artists and then work with the music they created was something that was innovative. And, they all enjoyed it and wanted to add to it.
AV: So being that you are of Jewish decent, have you attempted to bring that element or culture into your musical production?
CiS: Well I am trying but it is more difficult to actually get artists who produce music like that. I am thinking of it for a future album. The element would be something that is very little known generally - it's classical music from North Africa, which actually exists in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia and is known as Maluf music or Andalusian music but it's not Spanish music in that sense. It was developed in Spain when the Muslims, Moors and Jews were in Spain. So that element I will try to bring into record form in the future.
AV: So that's something you are considering for your next album after "Krishna Lila"?
CiS: Well from the next album I would like to focus on the "women," of the Maghreb; The Maghreb being the five countries making up North Africa.
AV: Well talking about "Krishna Lila," can you give us some more details about that - where that came from and how was it set up?
CiS: First off the idea was to work with a live classical style or bhajan. On Shri Durga I worked with K. Shridar who played the sarod on the album. He introduced me to his niece who is a bhajan singer in Bombay and I did a session with her there. Her name is Radhika and she has a beautiful voice - so from there I got the idea to do a whole album of bhajans. But, the thing that is in a way a little unusual was that we went to Madras and recorded Karnatik bhajans. So the end product is that Krishna Lila is five different bhajans in five different languages: Marathi, Vrajbasi, Kannada, Tamil and Sanskrit. So it started with one singer and then it was decided to do a Krishna album thus, all the bhajans are Krishna bhajans. So that's why it became Krishna Lila.
AV: So being that you worked in five different languages, how did you meet up all the different artists and singers who performed for the album?
CiS: Well in Bombay the singer was Radhika and K. Shridar's brother K. Shivakumar plays the violin and lives in Bombay so he was also part of the session. In Bombay, I also met Pandit Ulhas Bapat and did a session with him - he plays the santoor. Then in Madras, K. Shridar introduced me to other musicians - who ended up being a singer with her group and then, another veena player with her group and that added the Karnatik element to the album.
AV: So, being someone who has been in the "scene"- what would your suggestion be to someone trying to do something similar? To the new artists out there?
CiS: Well my suggestion would be to really "listen" to the original music that's the source of it - and be respectful to that source.
AV: Ok then what would your sentiment be towards sampling? To a dj or an artist who takes from another source and then simply adds beats to it?
CiS: See that's what I mean. First, one has to listen to the source. For example to use sarangi in a song one has to understand how a sarangi player works. So if you listen to the source and have respect for what they do - considering those musicians start from the age of five or something and they just keep playing all their life - there is a lot of effort and devotion that goes into that. So to come in and to sample to make a song out of it is ok I guess - there is room for everything out there but the new songs capability to age well with the times will be considerably lower. For example if you listen to a raga recorded yesterday versus something recorded forty years ago - it's the same. The inspiration is the same. I mean if you create a song to be modern or the hot thing for the moment then you still have to realize where the source of music or melody is from and not just work with the beats. I think some people get too wrapped up in the beats, but the emphasis shouldn't be there. I mean it's taken thousands of years to develop the traditional sound to what it is now and that's where the emphasis should be.
AV: So that's all I had to ask you. Is there anything else you want to share with us?
CiS: Well I hope for a better world - that's really the focus here. And, I think we do need music for a better world - its necessary to provide inspiration.
AV: Well thanx a lot Cheb for your time. And to all our readers check out Cheb's Site for more up to date info.


Home BLOG HOW-TO
ABZU X360ce Settings for Any PC Gamepad Controller | TESTED & WORKING
HOW-TO January 20, 2022
A USB gamepad controller is necessary to play most games on a PC if you don't want to play the game with the keyboard. But the controller might not function properly or at all...
How the Free Hit Chip in Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Works
If you recently started playing Fantasy Premier League, you may be wondering How Free Hit Works in FPL. Currently, a lot of FPL managers has been looking for this for some time. You will...
7 Cryptocurrencies to Buy in the Fourth Week of January 2022 | Make Sure...
Many people use cryptocurrencies for various reasons. It is a digital currency that rises rapidly, thereby driving companies, people e.t.c, to invest in it by exchanging and buying coins. Therefore, if you want to...
River City Girls X360ce Settings for Any PC Gamepad Controller | TESTED & WORKING
How the Wildcard Chip in Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Works
FPL is one of the biggest fantasy games currently available and it is also very easy and fun to play. It comes with a lot of features like the triple captain, free hit and...
Song of the Deep X360ce Settings for Any PC Gamepad Controller | TESTED &...
Shadow Man Remastered X360ce Settings for Any PC Gamepad Controller | TESTED & WORKING
How to Install Apps on Your Android Device without Using Google Play Store
The Google Play Store is normally the place to download for Android devices. But sometimes, you would notice that there are certain that you can't find it this store. With this, you will get...


Will Johnny Manziel Be A Big Star Or A Big Bust? The $100 Million Question.
By Dan Farkas on May 26, 2014 in Articles › Celebrity News
Some football experts insist Johnny Manziel will end up in the Hall of Fame. Other football experts insist Johnny Manziel will be the biggest draft bust in pro football history. It's not just history and notoriety on the line. In the last year, good NFL quarterbacks signed contract extensions totaling $100 million. More than $40 million of that was guaranteed money.
If things work out well, over the next five years, the man known as Johnny Football, Johnny Cleveland and Johnny Manziel will have a chance to earn $100 million in salary and bonuses. He could also never see a dime and be out of the league. With that much on the line, what factors outside of Manziel's control will determine if he gets extended for nine figures or tossed in the bust department?
om Pennington/Getty Images)
Kyle Shanahan
People who don't watch football probably have never heard of Kyle Shanahan. Some people who do watch football probably have never heard of Shanahan. It's Shanahan's job to coordinate the Cleveland offense.
Shanahan's dad coached the Denver Broncos to two Super Bowl wins. He also earned a $35 million deal to coach Washington and brought his son Kyle along to coordinate Washington's offense.
The good news is with Robert Griffin III as a rookie quarterback, Washington made the playoffs. The bad news is in that playoff game, RG III blew out his knee and never really recovered. This resulted in tension among the player and team. It also left Washington with the second worst record in the league and both Shanahans out of work.
Manziel has similar physical skills to RG III. How Shanahan learned from his Washington experience will determine how Manziel grows as a player and brand.
Josh Gordon
Gordon led the NFL in receiving yards last year, which is impressive because he only played in 14 of 16 possible games. The league suspended Gordon for the first two games of the season for violating the league's substance abuse policy. By all accounts, Gordon was a model citizen and teammate. Then the day after Manziel was drafted, word leaked Gordon could face a year suspension for a marijuana violation. The league hasn't confirmed this. The Browns aren't talking.
Joe Montana had Jerry Rice. Peyton Manning had Marvin Harrison. Manziel needs someone like that to grow and develop. Gordon can be that guy if he's on the field.
Ray Farmer
Farmer is the Browns' General Manager. It's his job to pick the players. After word of Gordon's potential suspension, every NFL draft guru assumed the Browns would take another wide receiver in the draft to replace Gordon. The second round arrived. The Browns took a guy who weighs 300 pounds. He doesn't catch passes. Neither did the person the Browns drafted in the third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh rounds. Draft experts and Browns fans were beyond flummoxed.
The Browns did pick up two free agents who were out on the street for more than a month. Neither will replace Gordon. Farmer has built up every other position except the one Manziel arguably needs the most. How Farmer responds before the season begins will be critical to Manziel's future.
Maverick Carter
Carter will represent Manziel with his off-the-field business. Carter represents LeBron James. The good news is Carter leveraged deals for LeBron with brands like Coca-Cola, State Farm and McDonalds to the tune of $42 million a year. The bad news is Manziel isn't LeBron James and has a reputation for bravado off the field that may not align with family friendly brands.
Manziel is Carter's first foray into football. If Carter excels on the field the way he does on a court, Manziel may not have to worry about Cleveland's coaches, teammates and front office.
Johnny Manziel is famous. Everyone can agree on this. As a result, Manziel's career will be etched in football history. Whether that story is one of success or failure remains unwritten and dependent in some part to factors out of his control. It's a $100 million question with no answer in sight.
Johnny Manziel Articles
Cutting Johnny Manziel Will Cost The Cleveland Browns $4.6 million
Johnny Manziel Blames The Browns For Not Recognizing His Poor Work Habits
Johnny Manziel Net Worth
LeBron James Just Dumped Johnny Manziel From His Marketing Agency
Johnny Manziel Parents Net Worth
Josh Gordon Net Worth
Johnny Manzeil's Raging Friday Night House Party May Have Cost His Teammate $10 million
Kyle Shanahan Net Worth
T.J. Ward Net Worth


Tag Archives: Gotham
Batman (1943) – Chapter 1: The Electrical Brain
Columbia, Douglas Croft, Dr Daka, Espionage, Gotham, J. Carrol Naish, Kidnapping, Lambert Hillyer, Lewis Wilson, Radium, Serial, Shirley Patterson
D: Lambert Hillyer / 26m
Cast: Lewis Wilson, Douglas Croft, J. Carrol Naish, Shirley Patterson, William Austin, Robert Fiske, Gus Glassmire, I. Stanford Jolley,
In the wake of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Batman aka Bruce Wayne (Wilson), and Robin aka Dick Grayson (Croft), have become secret government agents. They still find the time to catch regular bad guys though, and are supported by Wayne's butler, Alfred (Austin). When Bruce's girlfriend, Linda Page (Patterson), asks him to accompany her to meet her uncle, Martin Warren (Glassmire), on his release from prison, his abduction by men working for Dr Daka (Naish), the Japanese leader of a spy ring operating in Gotham, provides Batman with his most dangerous adventure yet. Daka has kidnapped Warren for information about a store of radium kept at the Gotham City Foundation. By coincidence, it's where Linda works, and where Bruce and Dick witness some of Daka's men entering the building. Using a radium powered device with explosive properties, Daka's men steal the stored radium only for Batman and Robin to intervene. While one of them gets away with the radium, the others take on the Dynamic Duo in a rooftop fight that sees Batman pushed over the ledge and falling to certain death…
The very first screen incarnation of the DC Comics' character, Batman fits neatly into the serial formula already established by the likes of Flying G-Men (1939) and The Shadow (1940). By this time, Columbia Pictures were old hands at this sort of thing, and in adapting Batman from the comics, they continued to mold an existing heroic figure into the bash 'em, smash 'em and crash 'em milieu they had been so adept at creating. Fans of the early comics will spot encouraging details such as the presence of utility belts, costumes that reflect the original DC design, and the presence of Alfred (whose appearance would lead to a complete change regarding his character in the comics). Inevitably, there's no Batmobile, just a Cadillac Series 61 convertible that operates as a kind of Batmobile when the top is up, and as Bruce Wayne's ride about town when the top is down. The costumes, though, aren't quite as good as they could be, and are very baggy. Wilson isn't the most athletic of actors, and Croft is clearly too old to be playing Robin, while the budget – such as it is – is highlighted by the sparse nature of the sets and the backlot surroundings.
But what of the story itself? Well, as mentioned before, Columbia were old hands at this sort of thing by 1943, and they weren't averse to recycling some of their earlier plots. The pursuit of radium is used in much the same way as in Mandrake the Magician (1939), the hero's girlfriend has already been attacked once (and no doubt will be again – and again), and there's the first of what will be numerous car chases, so there's much that will be familiar to devotees. But there is room for some invention: the bat symbol affixed to criminals' foreheads (see above), and the car chase that ends due to the villains' car changing colour; both of these are clever and creative in equal fashion. But this having been made during World War II, this is as much a propaganda exercise as it is a thrilling serial, and it is unrepently racist toward the Japanese. We're introduced to Daka's hideout, which is located in a rundown neighbourhood identified as Little Tokyo, and a voice over intones, "Since a wise government rounded up the shifty-eyed Japs, it has become virtually a ghost street". No doubt there will be more like this in future episodes, but for now the tone has been set, the main characters have been introduced, and not for the first time, Batman is close to death. How will he survive?
Rating: 6/10 – as an opening chapter in a fifteen-part Forties serial goes, this isn't so bad that it would put you off watching any more, but it is poor enough to make you wonder if sticking with it all the way to the end will be a profitable use of your time; this is history in the making, however, and as the first time the Caped Crusader appeared on screen, Batman has the advantage of being intriguing for how the character will develop across the remaining fourteen chapters.
Amy Adams, Batman, Ben Affleck, Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent, Daily Planet, Diana Prince, Doomsday, Drama, Gal Gadot, General Zod, Gotham, Henry Cavill, Jesse Eisenberg, Justice League, Lex Luthor, Metropolis, Review, Sci-fi, Sequel, Superheroes, Superman, Wonder Woman, Zack Snyder
D: Zack Snyder / 151m
Cast: Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Jesse Eisenberg, Diane Lane, Laurence Fishburne, Jeremy Irons, Gal Gadot, Holly Hunter, Scoot McNairy, Callan Mulvey, Harry Lennix
$250 million budget + uneven script + wayward direction + awkward performances + Jesse Eisenberg ("The red capes are coming, the red capes are coming") + Doomsday looking too much like the Abomination from The Incredible Hulk (2008) + Batman and Superman being upstaged by Wonder Woman = the longest, most uninteresting, most bloated and unwieldy Batman and Superman movies yet. 'Nuff said.
Rating: 4/10 – dreary, overlong, and lacking a coherent storyline, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is neither a DC Universe movie that works, or a superhero movie that gives viewers anything new; with too many short cuts in the narrative to help overcome its sluggish construction, the movie provides further evidence – if any were needed – Snyder should move on, David S. Goyer shouldn't be an automatic choice for DC screenplays, and Henry Cavill is still so awfully po-faced as the son of Kal-El.


Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)
Additional Dosage Information
Secondary Uses
Brand Names:Mar-Zinc, Orazinc 110, Orazinc 220, Verazinc, Zinc, Zinc-220
By Julie MarksMedically Reviewed by Dr Justin Laube, MD
Zinc is a naturally-occurring mineral that your body needs for proper growth and development.
It's sometimes taken to treat a zinc deficiency or to promote wellness.
Zinc is also used with or without vitamin C to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms associated with the common cold.
There's no evidence that the average person needs to take extra zinc to maintain or improve their health.
Zinc is typically sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) product.
By Julie Marks
Medically Reviewed by Dr Justin Laube, MD
What is Zinc Sulfate (Zinc) used for?
Cerner Multum
Information Provided and Reviewed by Cerner Multum
What is the most important information I should know about Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Before using zinc sulfate, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to use zinc sulfate if you have certain medical conditions.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether zinc sulfate will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether zinc sulfate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
User Reviews & Rating
Overall rating for Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)
What are the side effects of Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
upset stomach.
Can I take Zinc Sulfate (Zinc) if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Risk cannot be ruled out
Based on FDA pregnancy categories
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Avoid taking this medication with foods that are high in calcium or phosphorus, which can make it harder for your body to absorb zinc sulfate. Foods high in calcium or phosphorus include milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, dried beans or peas, lentils, nuts, peanut butter, beer, cola soft drinks, and hot cocoa.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Use Zinc Sulfate (Zinc) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take zinc sulfate with a full glass of water.
Take zinc sulfate with food if it upsets your stomach.
Your healthcare provider may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best result. The recommended dietary allowance of zinc sulfate changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Database (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances") listings for more information.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What should I do if I missed a dose of Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, severe vomiting, dehydration, and restlessness.
If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Zinc Sulfate (Zinc), call your doctor or the Poison Control center
If someone collapses or isn't breathing after taking Zinc Sulfate (Zinc), call 911
Zinc supplements are usually well-tolerated.
It's best to get minerals like zinc from the foods you eat. A well-balanced diet should provide most healthy people with adequate amounts of zinc.
Some foods that are high in zinc include fish, beef, beans, wild rice, and peanuts.
Your dosage of zinc will depend on the type you take, your age, and your overall health.
Zinc can interact with certain antibiotics and rheumatologic medicines, so it's best to discuss with your doctor if you're taking or plan to use these medications while taking zinc supplementation.
Though research on its effectiveness is inconclusive, people take zinc for a host of other health issues, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), diarrhea, depression, acne, wound healing, age-related macular degeneration, and many other conditions.
While zinc may show some benefit for helping to shorten the duration of the common cold, there's currently no evidence to support its use in patients with COVID-19.
Shape: capsule
ZINCATE, PADDOCK
Color: orange/white
Imprint: ZINCATE, PADDOCK
Find Another Drug
Search prescription drugs, over-the counter medications, and supplements
Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health.


Judgment Road (Torpedo Ink Series #1)
by Christine FeehanChristine Feehan
Buy Online, Pick up in Store ..
As the enforcer of the Torpedo Ink motorcycle club, Reaper lives for riding and fighting. He's a stone-cold killer who turns his wrath on those who deserve it. Feelings are a weakness he can't afford--until a gorgeous bartender gets under his skin...
Near Sea Haven, the small town of Caspar has given Anya Rafferty a new lease on life. And she's desperate to hold on to her job at the biker bar, even if the scariest member of the club seems to have it out for her. But Reaper's imposing presence and smoldering looks just ratchet up the heat.
Anya's touch is everything Reaper doesn't want--and it brands him to the bone. But when her secrets catch up to her, Reaper will have to choose between Anya and his club--his heart and his soul.
Torpedo Ink Series , #1
Christine Feehan is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Carpathian series, the GhostWalker series, the Leopard series, the Shadow Riders series, and the Sea Haven novels, including the Drake Sisters series and the Sisters of the Heart series.
The wind blew off the sea as the three Harleys made their way through the last series of snaking turns and hit the straight stretch on Highway 1 running parallel to the ocean. The night was well under way, a fact that Savva "Reaper" Pajari was well aware of. He had to report to the president of his club, Czar, the moment they arrived back in Caspar, but time didn't matter for that. Even if Czar was at his home in Sea Haven, tucked in close to his wife, Reaper'd just hit the roof and climb in through the bedroom window. He'd done it more than once.
He lived for two things: riding free and fighting. He needed to feel solid muscle under his knuckles. He needed to feel fists hitting his body, tapping into that well of ice that covered every emotion. That swift explosion of violence and sweet pain as fists connected was his life, and had been his life since he was five. Now, he needed to stay sharp somehow, in this new bullshit direction the club had taken.
He rode along the highway, aware of the others on either side of him. Brothers, some for over thirty years. Men he counted on. Men he called family. Still, he was apart from them and he knew it, even if they didn't. He turned his head toward the ocean. Waves sprayed up into the air, rushing over rocks and battering at the cliffs. Sometimes he felt those battered rocks were him, time wearing him away, little by little.
His soul had been gone so long ago that he couldn't remember having one. Now, his heart was slowly disappearing. There wasn't a place on his body without a scar. He had another to add from this last trip. He also would have to have Ink tat his back, three more skulls to add to the collection of those resting in the roots of the tree on his back.
Viktor Prakenskii, the man known as Czar, was the best man he knew. Reaper's job was to stand in front of Czar, his self-appointed task from the time he was a little boy. He'd been doing it for so long now, he didn't know any other way of life. He stood in front of all his brothers and sisters-in Torpedo Ink, his club. He was proud to wear the club colors. He'd die for those colors and still detested any mission he ran if he had to take them off.
They turned off the main highway onto Caspar Road leading to the town of Caspar, where they'd set up home. They'd designed their compound around the old paymaster's building for the Caspar logging company. They had spent the first few months working on the building, turning it into their clubhouse. It housed multiple bedrooms, a bar, their meeting room-known as the chapel-and a kitchen. They shared bathrooms, whichever was closest to their assigned sleeping room. Czar had insisted each of them purchase a home nearby. He wanted those roots put down deep.
Reaper didn't give a damn where they all slept. As long as he could defend his club and their president, he was fine. The compound had a bed and right now, he needed one. He was forty-eight hours without sleep. He'd stitched up the wound in his side himself, making a piss-poor job of it too, but all he'd had was a little whiskey to disinfect it, and that had burned like hell. It still did.
They rode up to the compound, and Storm and Keys parked their bikes while he scanned the lot. Either Czar was home or at the bar. Reaper was fairly certain he'd be at the bar waiting for a report. He didn't like to disturb his wife, Blythe, or their four adopted children. Reaper didn't shut his bike down and waited for the others to turn to him.
"Goin' to find Czar," he said, unnecessarily, but they were looking at him like he should say something. He didn't like stupid shit, like the formalities that seemed so important to others. He didn't care if people liked him, in fact, he preferred they stay the hell away, except for his brothers, who understood him and made it clear they expected him to at least talk once in a while.
"I can report in," Keys offered. "You could use the downtime."
Reaper shook his head. "Won't be able to sleep right away. I have to check on him anyway. You know how I am."
"Want company?" Storm asked.
He shook his head. "Not necessary. Savage will be with him, probably a few others. Get some sleep. We all earned it." Savin "Savage" Pajari was his birth brother. Like Reaper, he acted as sergeant at arms, protecting Czar at all times. Between the two men, they had their president covered whether he liked it or not around the clock. "I already texted Czar we were comin' in when we were an hour out."
He was certain if he did that, Czar would go to the bar rather than have Reaper come to his home-exactly what Reaper wanted. It was the new bartender. Reaper didn't like anything out of the ordinary. He didn't trust it. The woman was definitely something out of the ordinary. Code could find dirt on anyone, but he hadn't found a single trace of her anywhere. She worked for cash, under the table. She wore designer jeans, but she drove a beat-up car on its last leg, rust breaking through the paint. The fucking thing smoked every time she turned the engine over.
Torpedo Ink had a garage up and running. Did she take her car there to get it fixed? Hell no. She drove off every night thinking no one knew where she was going. That was the hell of it. She drove back toward Fort Bragg, took Highway 20 and turned off at the Egg Taking Station, a campground in the Jackson Demonstration Forest. Why the fuck would a classy woman be bartending in a biker bar, drive a beat-up Honda Civic older than she was and be camping? It made no sense. He didn't like puzzles and Anya Rafferty was not only a puzzle, but one big headache.
Reaper had watched her for over a month. Five weeks and three days to be precise. He'd learned she was a hard worker. She listened to people, remembered their names and what they liked to drink. She flirted just enough to get good tips, but not enough to cause fights. She was generous with the waitresses, sharing tips she didn't have to share. She was careful and guarded yet gave the illusion she was open. She was kind to those less fortunate.
He'd watched her give a homeless man a blanket she carried in her car, and twice she'd brought him coffee and a meal. Twice she'd spent money he was certain she didn't have to get food or shoes for someone living on the streets. She seemed to have an affinity for the homeless, and he was certain she knew all of them by name. She volunteered in the soup kitchen Saturday mornings even though she couldn't have had more than a couple of hours of sleep.
She didn't flinch around the bikers, but it was obvious she wasn't from their world and didn't have a clue how to fit in. She took her cues from Czar and sometimes asked him questions. She'd never asked Reaper a single question, but she sent him a few shy smiles, which he didn't return. He'd spent more time in the bar in the five weeks she'd been there than he'd ever spent in a bar in his life.
Reaper glanced away from the compound, up toward the bar. He could see the lights shining through the dark from the banks of windows. His heart accelerated. His cock jerked hard in his jeans. That was unacceptable and that was why the woman had to go.
Every one of those in his club had been taught to be in complete control of their bodies at all times. They'd been beaten, starved, tortured and had unspeakable things done to them in order to shape them into disciplined killing machines. He felt very little emotion and certainly not physical attractions. The bitches partying hard, getting it on with anyone and everyone, did nothing for him. Not one thing. He often walked through a room full of half naked or naked women and his body didn't so much as stir.
One look at Anya Rafferty. Listening to the sound of her voice. Her fucking laugh. The way all that hair fell around her face like a dark cloud. A waterfall. She had more hair than two women put together, and he found he thought a lot about that hair when he should be thinking about keeping his president alive. Or himself. He refused to allow his cock to drive him. That part of his anatomy would never drive him. He didn't trust anyone, especially not a woman who made his body ache until his teeth hurt.
He sighed and turned his Harley, heading for the bar. He'd told Czar Anya had to go. She was a problem. Nothing about her added up. Nothing. Protecting Czar was his number-one priority, and if she wasn't forthcoming, she had to go. He told himself that shit, but he knew it wasn't the truth. He hated bullshit. Detested it. Especially when he was trying to bullshit himself. He could make all the excuses in the world, but the truth was, the bartender upset him. She got under his skin without trying.
Once in the parking area, Reaper swung his leg over his motorcycle and forced himself to stand upright, his two feet planted on solid ground. He'd been on his bike so long he wasn't certain he had the legs for earth any longer. Placing his dome on the bike he did a casual sweep of the parking lot. In that one moment, he took in every detail of the cars and lines of motorcycles parked there. He recognized several of the bikes. Two prospects were lounging close, keeping an eye on the bikes. He didn't acknowledge them, but he saw every detail. He removed the small leather bag from one of the compartments hidden in his bike and made his way across the parking area toward the bar, still looking around to every conceivable parking spot.
What he didn't see was the bartender's old rust bucket. He paused for a moment at the bottom of the stairs, breathing deeply, not knowing if that made him happy or if his mind went somewhere he refused to acknowledge. She was gone. Czar had done what he'd asked, and her presence was removed. That should make him happy. Well, he was never happy. He didn't know how to be. He'd forgotten. Relief maybe-except now he had to go to the campground and make certain she was okay. Damn it. He swore under his breath and climbed the steps leading up to the bar. His gut burned like hell with every step, but it wasn't nearly as bad as the ache in his chest.
Music poured out of the building, a loud, drubbing beat. That only added to the pounding in his head. He ignored it and yanked open the door. Raised voices and laughter mixed with the clink of glasses. Funny, now that it was an established biker bar, the place was hopping almost every night.
He stepped to the side of the door and took a long look around, noting every jacket or vest with colors. Mostly small-time clubs, or weekenders. A couple of legitimate road warriors. Three wannabe hard-asses, drinking, looking for women and most likely a fight. Five, sitting in the corner, badasses wearing Demon patches. They noticed him the moment he walked in. All five were packing and they weren't drinking, at least not enough to say they were there for a good time. He did a quick inventory of his body. He could move fast if needed. He never minded a good fight and most likely, any minute, he'd be welcoming one. He let the Demons see his gaze linger on them before he allowed himself to scan along the bar.
He had a gun tucked in his waistband at the small of his back. Another was down in his boot along with a knife. A third gun was inside his jacket, easy access, just a cross-body pull and he was in business. The truth was, he rarely used a gun or a knife when he killed. He preferred silence, but weapons came in handy occasionally and he was proficient in the use of all of them.
He knew he was looking for the bartender. Anya. He fucking loved that name. It suited her face. Her voice. It was possible her piece of junk car had broken down and she had hitched a ride with someone. He didn't see her anywhere and it pissed him off that he'd even looked. Worse, the pressure in his chest grew.
Tonight's bartender, Preacher, looked harassed. He glanced up from the sea of customers and shot Reaper a welcoming grin, his eyes scanning for wounds, dwelling for a moment on the blood on Reaper's shirt and then jumping back to his face. Reaper gave him a nod, indicating he was fine, and Preacher nodded back. He jerked his chin toward the hall behind the bar. There was a doorway to the left of the bar, but Reaper stalked across the room and flipped up the jointed wooden slab that allowed him to walk through the opening to get behind the bar. He moved down the long hallway straight to the office.
The door to the back office was closed, signifying a meeting of some kind. If the door was closed, any waitress or non-club member stayed out. Unzipping his jacket, Reaper went right on in, hoping Savage didn't put a bullet in him as he waltzed through the door. Savage was unpredictable at times. His brother gave a quick scan of his body, much the way Preacher had. Czar stood up to face him, doing the same. He frowned when he saw the blood. Shit, he'd forgotten his shirt was a mess. It wasn't all his, either. Savage's gaze jumped back to his face.
"I'm fine," he said, to stop the questions.
Code had been poring over books with Czar, which was laughable. Czar hated number crunching and only pretended to listen to Code half the time. With Czar and Code at the table were two other club members, Absinthe and Ice, Storm's twin brother. All had their eyes on him and the blood on his shirt. Something was up to have so many gathered this late at night.
"What happened?" Czar snapped before anyone else could say anything.
Praise for Christine Feehan and the Sea Haven Novels
"I love everything she does."—J. R. Ward
"The queen of paranormal romance."—USA Today
"The fiery combination of Prakenskii brothers and elemental sisters has made this series one that never disappoints. Pure Feehan magic!"—RT Book Reviews
"Sensual, violent, intense and thrilling."—Library Journal
"Ms. Feehan is at the top of her game with this magical romance."—The Romance Readers Connection
"Feehan brings a sizzling story of seduction and sorcery to her readers."—Examiner.com
motorcycle club romance paperback
book by christine feehan
ink book
Covert Game (GhostWalker Series #14)
Treason, torture and temptation haunt the GhostWalkers in their most dangerous adventure yet, as Christine ...
Treason, torture and temptation haunt the GhostWalkers in their most dangerous adventure yet, as Christine Feehan's #1 New York Times bestselling series hits an explosive new high.Rescuing an industrial spy from the hands of a criminal mastermind is a suicide ...
Dark Demon (Carpathian Series #16)
A female vampire slayer proves as seductive—and mysterious—as the night dwellers she stalks in this ...
A female vampire slayer proves as seductive—and mysterious—as the night dwellers she stalks in this novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Carpathian series.For as long as she can remember, Natalya has been fighting demons: first in the form ...
Dark Possession (Carpathian Series #18)
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan returns to her uniquely sensual Carpathian world ...
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan returns to her uniquely sensual Carpathian world in a novel about the nature of true love and the unnatural forces that could destroy it...Manolito De La Cruz knew he was dangerously close ...
Dark Sentinel (Carpathian Series #32)
In an explosive novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan, a human ...
In an explosive novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan, a human woman ignites the desire of her Carpathian lifemate—and of an ancient vampire with a score to settle.After the devastating loss of her entire family, Lorraine ...
Dark Slayer (Carpathian Series #20)
After a century of longing, the instinct for survival unites a betrayed woman and a ...
After a century of longing, the instinct for survival unites a betrayed woman and a cursed man in this seductive Carpathian novel by #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan.Ivory Malinov's only brethren are the wolves. Abandoned by her ...
Deadly Game (GhostWalker Series #5)
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan explores the limits of endurance and the boundaries ...
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan explores the limits of endurance and the boundaries of passion in a life-and-death struggle to survive in this GhostWalker novel...It begins as a mission to protect a politician from an assassination threat. But ...
Leopard's Prey (Leopard Series #6)
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan takes readers to the sultry streets of New ...
#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan takes readers to the sultry streets of New Orleans in this Leopard novel—where the nights have never felt so torrid or so dangerous…From a tough stint in the armed forces to stalking the ...
Night Game (GhostWalker Series #3)
In this "suspenseful...captivating" (Publishers Weekly) novel in GhostWalker series, #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine ...
In this "suspenseful...captivating" (Publishers Weekly) novel in GhostWalker series, #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan tracks the desperate steps of a wanted woman—betrayed, avenging, and dangerously irresistible… Gator Fontenot of the Special Forces ...


I'm Hyped About The Emmys and The People v. O.J. Simpson
Photos provided by FX
It's Emmy Sunday! I love awards shows but this one is extra special because actor Sterling K. Brown was nominated for his supporting role in The People v. O.J. Simpson. Brown played my father, former prosecutor Christopher Darden. The show received 22 nominations! Only second behind Game of Thrones.
I'm also rooting for Courtney B. Vance (Johnnie Cochran) and Sarah Paulson (Marcia Clark). The entire cast were amazing. Brown is up against his fellow cast members John Travolta (Robert Shapiro) and David Schwimmer (Robert Kardashian). Despite the competition the entertainment press report Sterling K. Brown is the favorite.
Tomorrow night I will be ready with my glass of Stella Rosa and popcorn. This is so exciting!
The Emmys air live on ABC, 7pm EST/ 4pm PST. Keep your fingers crossed!
Chris Darden Christopher Darden Emmys Sterling K. Brown The People v. O.J. Simpson


In Hindsight: Looking Back at Past Drafts
June 5, 2015 500LevelFan	Leave a comment
With the 2015 MLB draft only a few days away (the first round kicks off on Monday) it's time to continue a 500 Level Fan tradition and take a look back at some prior MLB drafts to see how well the Blue Jays – and the rest of MLB – fared. We will do this using the greatest tool of all: hindsight. As any fan knows, baseball is entirely different when it comes to drafting players. There are so many minor league levels and such a large player pool to draw from, not to mention things like signability issues and slot bonuses. It's not rare in baseball for the best available player to not go first overall, just as it's not rare for players to take years to make the major leagues. So let's take a look back at the 2010, 2005, and 2000 MLB drafts (5, 10, and 15 years ago). Armed with hindsight, which is always 20/20, we can see how the draft order might have changed knowing how careers played out.
Note – I used Baseball Reference's WAR stat to rank the players, and my re-ranked top-10 list doesn't take into account things like signability issues, team needs, or draft strategy (i.e. high school vs. college). I simply re-ranked the drafted players based on career WAR (Note: Career WAR totals are as of May 28).
As mentioned above, it often takes several years for drafted players to reach the major leagues. Five years have passed since the '10 draft, and while many of the drafted players are still young, one would expect the top talents to have found their way to the big leagues by now.
Here are the top-10 picks of the 2010 draft:
Even if Bryce Harper turned out to be a bust, I don't think anybody could fault the Washington Nationals for picking him first overall. He was one of the most hyped prospects in decades, landing on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a 16-year old kid. To date he has not disappointed. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 2012, and currently leads the league in R, HR, BB, OBP, SLG, OPS, and OPS+. Manny Machado and Matt Harvey have also turned into stud players, but the rest of the top-10 leaves a lot to be desired. Taillon reached AAA in 2013 before Tommy John surgery cost him the entire '14 season. Barret Loux has had health issues and has not pitched since 2013, and Karsten Whitson did not sign with the Padres, was re-drafted by Boston in 2014, and has not pitched above A ball. Pomeranz, DeShields, and Choice have all been dealt to different organizations, and Colon is a bit player in KC.
This is what the the top-10 looks like with the magic of hindsight, based on career WAR:
As you can see, five years after the 2010 draft, only a handful of true stars have emerged: Sale, Harper, Machado, and maybe Harvey. Simmons is a solid player but the majority of his career WAR is from his defense, not his bat, and the rest of players look to be solid major leaguers, but not future All-Stars. The one guy who could challenge that claim is 2014 ROY winner Jacob deGrom, who is off to a solid start this year (6-4, 2.41 ERA, 71 K in 71 IP) – not bad for the 272nd overall pick.
Blue Jay Focus
The 2010 draft was Toronto's first under Alex Anthopoulos, and aside from the first pick, has turned out to be pretty good. Aaron Sanchez is cemented in the 2015 rotation and has the potential to be one of the AL's best. Unfortunately, one of the other top players taken is now plying his trade with another team. The biggest what-if moment came in the 18th round when the Jays selected current Chicago Cubs phenom Kris Bryant. Bryant chose not to sign with Toronto in order to pursue a college career, and is now, of course, mashing for the Cubs. If only….
First Round Pick: Deck McGuire (11th overall) – Career WAR: 0.0
Total Number of Picks: 56
Number of Players to Reach the Majors: 7
– Deck McGuire – now in AA in the Dodgers organization (11th), WAR of 0.0
– Aaron Sanchez (34th, supplemental first round pick), WAR of 1.8
– Noah Syndergaard – now with NY Mets (38th, supplemental first round pick), WAR of 0.0
– Asher Wojciechowski – now with Houston (41st), WAR of -0.3
– Sam Dyson – now with Miami (126th), WAR of 0.7
– Sean Nolin – now in AA with Oakland (186th), WAR of -0.4
– Dalton Pompey (486th), WAR of 0.4
– Kris Bryant – did not sign, now with Chi Cubs (546th), WAR of 1.4
Total WAR = 3.6
The 2005 draft has been called the greatest draft of all time by many baseball experts. Looking back at the 'draft ten years later, you'll see several superstar players still in their prime. Unfortunately, none of those stars are in Toronto.
Upton. Gordon. Zimmerman. Braun. Tulowitzki. Those five have combined for 11 Silver Slugger awards, 7 Gold Gloves, 14 All-Star appearances, 1 Rookie of the Year award, 1 MVP, and 20 top-5 MVP finishes. Not bad. Even Maybin and Pelfrey have been solid big leaguers, and before labeling Ricky Romero a bust, Jays fans should remember that he made the All-Star team and finished 10th in Cy Young voting in 2011. The only two true busts are Wade Townsend and Jeff Clement. Townsend never rose above AA, left baseball in 2010 and is now a professional poker player. Clement played 152 big league games for Seattle and Pittsburgh, before officially retiring in 2014.
With the magic of hindsight, here is a re-ranked version of the 2005 draft, based on career WAR:
That right there shows why '05 is considered one of the greatest drafts ever. Aside from the top-10, you have Andrew McCutchen (the 2013 MVP), Jacoby Ellsbury, and Brett Gardner. Buster Posey and Tim Lincecum, two key cogs of the recent Giants dynasty, were also both drafted in later rounds, but neither player signed. Still – a very impressive overall draft.
The 2005 draft was completed under the guidance of J.P. Ricciardi, and to be blunt, it was terrible. Aside from Romero, only two players that Ricciardi selected ever made the major leagues, and one of them (Brett Wallace – yes, that Brett Wallace) didn't even sign with the team and re-entered the draft.
First Round Pick: Ricky Romero (6th overall) – Career WAR: 9.7
– Ricky Romero – now in the minors with San Francisco (6th), WAR of 9.7
– Robert Ray – now out of baseball (206th), WAR of 0.1
– Brett Wallace – did not sign, now in AAA in San Diego (1253rd), WAR of -0.5
In stark contrast to the 2005 draft, we have the 2000 draft. As a whole, the draft was OK, but when looking at only the top-10? Yikes.
One player – just one, single, solitary player – from the top-10 is still playing in the big leagues, but at least it's a good one. Adrian Gonzalez has been a superstar for a long time, but unfortunately for the Marlins, not for them. Florida dealt him to the Rangers for Ugueth Urbina (who helped the Marlins win the World Series so it wasn't a total bust), who then traded him to the Padres, who then dealt him to the Red Sox, who in turn traded him to the Dodgers. Rocco Baldelli had a decent run with the Rays, but that's about it for the '00 top-10. Half of the selections never even made the major leagues, and the other three that did put up numbers worse than replacement level.
Here is a re-ranked version of the 2000 draft, based on career WAR:
That's better. After most of the top-10 whiffed on their picks, the rest of the draft produced some solid players. There are World Series champions (Utley, Wainwright, Molina), Cy Young winners (Lee, Webb), and HR Kings (Bautista), not to mention Gonzalez and James Shields. Ian Kinsler and current Jay Russell Martin were both selected in the later rounds, but neither signed and both went back in the draft.
Gord Ash was the man in charge of the Jays in 2000, and was responsible for putting together an absolutely awful draft. Only Dustin McGowan made much of an impact, but injuries derailed his career before it even got started. Ash used his first pick on Miguel Negron, a player who never made the majors and put up a career .687 OPS in the minor leagues. Do over please!
First Round Pick: Miguel Negron (18th overall) – Career WAR: 0.0
– Dustin McGowan – now in AAA with Philadelphia (33rd), WAR of 1.8
– Mike Smith – now out of baseball (148th), WAR of -0.5
– Rich Thompson – now out of baseball (178th), WAR of -0.5
– Vinnie Chulk – now out of baseball (358th), WAR of 1.4
– Cody Clark – did not sign, now out of baseball (1404th), WAR of -0.2
Previous PostSeason Saving WinNext PostThe Week That Was: Week 9


University of Texas at Tyler - R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center
2022-03-01 19:30:00 2022-03-01 22:30:00 America/Chicago The Simon & Garfunkel Story //artandseek.org/calendar/event/108446/the-simon-garfunkel-story University of Texas at Tyler - R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center, 3900 University Boulevard, Facility 2100, Tyler, TX, 75701
THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY Tuesday, March 1, 2022 • 7:30 PM
With more than 100 million albums sold, SIMON & GARFUNKEL's perfect harmonies and songs poignantly captured the era that made them one of the most successful folk-rock duos of all time. Relive all of your favorites — "Mrs. Robinson," "Cecilia," "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Homeward Bound," "The Sound of Silence"— with this immersive concert-style theater show chronicling the amazing journey shared by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. This story follows their humble beginnings as Tom & Jerry, through their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the '60s, to their dramatic split in 1970. The evening of music culminates with their famous "The Concert in Central Park" reunion in 1981, with more than half a million fans in attendance
Official Site Facebook
Tuesday, March 1, 2022 @ 7:30 pm 2022-03-01 19:30:00 2022-03-01 22:30:00 America/Chicago The Simon & Garfunkel Story //artandseek.org/calendar/event/108446/the-simon-garfunkel-story University of Texas at Tyler - R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center, 3900 University Boulevard, Facility 2100, Tyler, TX, 75701
Find This Event 3900 University Boulevard · Facility 2100 · Tyler, TX 75701


Springshare, will acquire QuestionPoint
Like QuestionPoint
Internet Media
Higher-Ed Media and Tech
By QuestionPoint
By Springshare
Springshare Competitor`s Deals
E-Marketing & Search
Education Media and Tech
All Segments 06/12/19 to 06/12/19 (1 results)
announced 6/12/2019 via Yahoo, Inc.
synopsis: Springshare, a provider of software solutions for libraries, will acquire QuestionPoint from OCLC, a nonprofit global library cooperative. QuestionPoint is a complete virtual reference management system that integrates chat, e-mail, a reference knowledge base, reports and analytic tools to give users a complete view of reference activity.
buyer: Springshare
Founded in 2007, Springshare is an internet software company focused on developing engaging web applications for libraries and educational institutions. Springshare offers a cloud-based platform that helps libraries thrive in a digital-first world and provide superb service to their users. "
target parent: OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc.
target: QuestionPoint
QuestionPoint is a complete virtual reference management system that integrates chat, e-mail, a reference knowledge base, reports and analytic tools to give users a complete view of reference activity. QuestionPoint allows libraries to expand their hours of service to offer live help at anytime.
closed 9/22/2020 via GlobeNewswire
Axiell Group AB, acquired CultureConnect
synopsis: Axiell, the world's leading software and services provider for the cultural sector, announced the acquisition of CultureConnect, an award-winning technology company headquartered in New York City that empowers cultural institutions to easily create beautiful and dynamic digital experiences that broaden audience engagement onsite and online.
buyer: Axiell Group AB
Axiell Group AB is an IT company that is specialised in providing services to the culture sector, archives, museums and libraries. The company offers advanced and tailored solutions to customers in many parts of the world. "
target: CultureConnect
CultureConnect is an award-winning technology company empowering museums, libraries, attractions, and cultural organizations to deliver engaging digital experiences to audiences online, in-gallery, or on personal devices.
Yoni Groupe, acquired Decalog
synopsis: Groupe Yoni, a leader in specialized software solutions for the Watchmaking, Jewelery, Goldsmith and Collective Catering businesses, has acquired Decalog. Collaborating with thousands of librarians, archives and museums, DECALOG develops advanced software solutions that enables institutions to manage the full spectrum of library materials.
buyer: Yoni Groupe
A family business for over 30 years, Groupe Yoni specializes in publishing business software for professionals in the Watch and Jewelery, Goldsmithing and Collective Catering industry. "
target: Decalog
Collaborating with thousands of librarians, archives and museums, DECALOG develops advanced software solutions that enables institutions to manage the full spectrum of library materials, archives, collections and processes and to empower patrons to identify and obtain the information they need.
closed 11/4/2013 via Company Press Release
SirsiDynix, acquired EOS International
synopsis: SirsiDynix, a library management technology company, announced the acquisition of EOS International, a California-based technology company that develops award-winning solutions for legal, government, corporate, medical, and other special library customers.
buyer parent: Vista Equity Partners
buyer: SirsiDynix
SirsiDynix connects people with knowledge at more than 23,000 libraries around the world. Through library management technology and search and discovery tools, libraries using SirsiDynix technology bring relevant resources and the power of knowledge to their users and communities. "
target: EOS International
For over 30 years, Electronic Online Systems (EOS) International has been developing, marketing and supporting award-winning library automation and knowledge management solutions for thousands of special libraries worldwide.
SydneyPLUS, purchased Special Library Business from Inmagic, Inc.
synopsis: SydneyPLUS and Inmagic, Inc. announced the acquisition of Inmagic's special library business by SydneyPLUS. The special library business includes Inmagic's DB/Text® Library Suite of products, a full-featured library management system that combines highly flexible information management tools with a Web-based integrated library system.
buyer: SydneyPLUS
Leading organizations around the globe use SydneyPLUS knowledge management solutions for MS SQL and Oracle to increase collaboration amongst staff, improve customer service, eliminate redundant processes and to enhance productivity. "
seller: Inmagic, Inc.
Inmagic's DB/Text® Library Suite of products is a full-featured library management system that combines highly flexible information management tools with a Web-based integrated library system to easily manage, publish, and access library and resource center assets.
DEMCO, Inc., acquired Evanced Solutions, Inc.
synopsis: DEMCO, Inc., a leading library supplier, has announced the acquisition of Evanced Solutions, a market leader in developing and distributing solutions allowing libraries to web-enable their services and streamline day-to-day management tasks. Evanced Solutions offers software and dedicated service for libraries of all types and budgets.
buyer parent: Wall Family Enterprise
buyer: DEMCO, Inc.
DEMCO provides product and service solutions to libraries and schools to help them better meet the needs of their communities. Products include a full range of supplies, equipment, furniture and technology including a comprehensive interior design service for libraries and schools nationwide. "
target: Evanced Solutions, Inc.
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Evanced Solutions offers software and dedicated service for libraries of all types and budgets. Online tools include event calendaring with online registration, meeting room booking, summer reading management, and library materials vending.
announced 1/25/2017 via Company Press Release
OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc., will acquire Relais International, Inc.
synopsis: OCLC has agreed to acquire Relais International, a leading interlibrary loan solution provider based in Ottawa, Canada. Relais has been working with libraries for more than 20 years to provide solutions for the full range of interlibrary loan and consortial resource sharing services. Relais D2D solution is the market leader in consortial borrowing.
buyer: OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc.
OCLC is a nonprofit global library cooperative providing shared technology services, original research and community programs so that libraries can better fuel learning, research and innovation. "
target: Relais International, Inc.
Relais International has been working with libraries for more than 20 years to provide solutions for the full range of interlibrary loan, document delivery, and consortial resource sharing services. Their Relais D2D solution integrates the end-user discovery experience with request management.
closed 12/1/2011 via PR Newswire
Baker & Taylor, Inc., acquired Bridgeall Libraries Ltd.
synopsis: Baker & Taylor, Inc., the world's largest distributor of physical and digital books and entertainment products, announced it acquired Bridgeall Libraries, a fast-growing Glasgow, Scotland-based technology company that has developed innovative collection performance improvement software.
buyer parent: Castle Harlan Inc.
buyer: Baker & Taylor, Inc.
Baker & Taylor, Inc. is the world's largest distributor of books, digital content and entertainment products. The company offers cutting-edge digital media services and innovative technology platforms to thousands of publishers, libraries and retailers worldwide. "
target: Bridgeall Libraries Ltd.
Based in Glasgow, U.K., Bridgeall Libraries Ltd. has developed smartsm® and collectionHQ®, the world leading Evidence Based Stock Management (EBSM®) solutions. EBSM® is the complete library stock improvement methodology, which analyses historic and current information about stock use.
Harald Quandt Industriebeteiligungen GmbH, acquired zetcom
synopsis: Harald Quandt Industriebeteiligungen GmbH, a long-term investment holding company in Germany, has acquired a majority stake in zetcom Group AG, a Swiss provider of inventory management solutions for museums and non-profit organizations. zetcom's MuseumPlus solution provides real-time museum management and fully documents any type of collection.
buyer: Harald Quandt Industriebeteiligungen GmbH
Harald Quandt Industriebeteiligungen (HQIB) is a long-term investment holding that acquires and develops small- and medium-sized companies in the German-speaking region. HQIB creates substantial value-add for their portfolio companies through their profound operational and strategic experience. "
target: zetcom
zetcom is a Swiss provider of inventory management solutions for museums and non-profit organizations. zetcom's robust and efficient MuseumPlus solution supports the complex needs of museums and archives. MuseumPlus provides real-time museum management and fully documents any type of collection.
Pearson plc, acquired The Learning Edge North America
synopsis: The Learning Edge International has joined Pearson, a global leader in education, technology and services. Pearson's mission is to increase access to educational opportunities and improve student outcomes worldwide.
buyer: Pearson plc (LSE:PSON:$5,359.58)
Pearson is an international education and media company with world-leading businesses in education, business information and consumer publishing. "
target: The Learning Edge North America
The Learning Edge International provides solutions for educators so they can more effectively manage Digital Learning Resources using EQUELLA - a world class Digital Repository. EQUELLA is a mature, robust Digital Repository that integrates to your existing Learning Management System.
EBSCO Information Services, acquired Stacks Inc.
synopsis: EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) has announced the acquisition of Stacks Inc., a leading library and research web platform. EBSCO partnered with the company in 2016 to release Stacks, a hosted content management system for libraries.
buyer parent: EBSCO Industries, Inc.
buyer: EBSCO Information Services
EBSCO Information Services is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide with more than 11,000 discovery customers in over 100 countries. EBSCO Discovery Service™ (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection. "
target: Stacks Inc.
Stacks Inc. is a leading library and research web platform. Stacks technology is designed to simplify the process of creating online content for libraries. It is the first turnkey, responsive web platform with plug and play integrations and mobile apps connected in real time.
Lucidea, acquired Eloquent Systems
synopsis: Lucidea, the leading provider of library automation and knowledge management solutions to organizations worldwide, has acquired Eloquent Systems. Eloquent, based in Vancouver, BC, is an applications developer offering mobile-friendly knowledge management software for professionals who manage archives, libraries, museums and records.
buyer: Lucidea
Lucidea, based in Canada, is the developer of a full portfolio of solutions including SydneyEnterprise, LawPort, LookUp Precision, Argus, CuadraSTAR, Inmagic Presto and GeniePlus, offering KM and library automation systems that deliver improved access to organizational knowledge. "
target: Eloquent Systems
Eloquent Systems, Inc., or Eloquent, is a Canada-based applications developer of knowledge management software for professionals who manage archives, libraries, and records. They provide tools for organizing information about physical and digital assets so that all stakeholders find what they need.
announced 5/13/2019 via PE Hub
RLDatix, will acquire iContracts, Inc
synopsis: RLDatix, a patient safety software platform based in the UK and Canada, has agreed to acquire iContracts, a Bridgewater, New Jersey-based provider of contract, policy and revenue management solutions to the healthcare and life sciences industries.
buyer parent: TA Associates
buyer: RLDatix
RLDatix is a driving force for innovation in patient safety. Bringing together the best of RL Solutions and Datix, RLDatix is the world's largest software company focused exclusively on patient safety, with more than 3,000 customers in 19 countries around the globe. "
target parent: Susquehanna International Group, LLP
target: iContracts, Inc
iContracts is a leading cloud-based, software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider of contract management and compliance solutions for healthcare, education and industrial customers.
Hobsons, acquired Naviance
synopsis: Hobsons U.S., the leader in elevating colleges' and universities' enrollment strategies, has acquired Naviance, the leading provider of planning and advising systems for secondary schools. With innovative educational products and services, Hobsons U.S. will now reach the education community from K-12 to higher education and beyond.
buyer parent: Daily Mail and General Trust plc
buyer: Hobsons
Hobsons U.S. partners with colleges and universities to enhance and empower institutions' enrollment and admissions efforts. Hobsons U.S. helps colleges and universities to elevate their enrollment strategies efficiently, effectively, and easily. "
target: Naviance
Naviance is the leading provider of Web-based academic planning and advising systems for schools. The Naviance Network includes more than 25,000 educators and counselors serving nearly 2.4 million students in 42 countries who use WorkspaceK12 to support their comprehensive counseling programs.
announced 10/7/2020 via PR Web
leadHOOP, LLC, will acquire MatchMaximizer
synopsis: leadHOOP, LLC, a leading SaaS company, signed an agreement on to acquire the assets of MatchMaximizer, a privately held competitor. MatchMaximizer is a full-service, turnkey lead generation technology. It is all-in-one solution for contact centers, web partners, schools, and agencies.
buyer: leadHOOP, LLC
leadHOOP is a leading lead generation SaaS Platform & Marketplace. Leveraging their technology, they help improve consumer inquiry results with an easy to use set of tools for buyers, sellers, and aggregators. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in the suburbs of New York City. "
target: MatchMaximizer
MatchMaximizer is a full-service, turnkey lead generation technology. MatchMaximizer was developed initially to support technical platform needs of lead generation contact centers. Since then, it has grown as an all-in-one solution for contact centers, web partners, schools, and agencies.
PressReader, acquired Evident Point Software Corp
synopsis: Canada-based PressReader has acquired Evident Point Software Group. Headquartered in Richmond, British Columbia, Evident Point is a leading provider of eBook software, providing custom professional digital publishing solutions. With the acquisition, PressReader gains a company at the forefront of the on-screen reading experience.
buyer: PressReader
Headquartered in Canada, PressReader is on a mission to improve the way people discover stories that matter. The company provides an all-you-can-read platform of more than 7,500 newspapers and magazines where people can discover relevant and trusted content from anywhere in the world. "
target parent: LANIT JSC
target: Evident Point Software Corp
Based in Canada, Evident Point is a leading provider of eBook software worldwide, providing custom professional digital publishing solutions. The company works with clients to build eLearning and eBook applications and solutions for publishers, software companies, and educational institutions.
closed 11/18/2011 via BNC Analysis
LANIT JSC, acquired Evident Point Software Corp
synopsis: Canadian e-book software and firmware provider Evident Point has been acquired by LANIT, a major Russian company providing a diversified range of systems integration and other IT services. Neither the terms of the transaction nor general future plans of the two companies were disclosed.
buyer: LANIT JSC
LANIT JSU is the leading russian CIS multidisciplinary group of IT companies. The group companies offer a full range of IT services, whose number is steadily increasing due to development of advanced and popular technologies and solutions. "
Evident Point was established in 1995 with the vision of delivering quality software engineering services to major industry players. Evident Point's track record includes many successful projects for Apple, Microsoft, Netronix, Netscape and other industry leading software and hardware vendors.
Visma Advantage, acquired Advitrae
synopsis: Visma, a leading provider cloud business solutions in Europe, has acquired a majority stake in Advitrae, a Dutch provider of education planning and scheduling solutions. Advitrae offers a SaaS-based planning and scheduling software solution for secondary, vocational, and higher education institutions.
Visma is the leading provider of business software and business processes for accounting & payroll in Europe. The group comprises five business areas which are Visma Software, Visma BPO Accounting & Payroll, Visma Procurement & Collecting, Visma Retail and Visma System Development & Integration. "
target: Advitrae
Advitrae is a Dutch provider of education planning and scheduling solutions. Advitrae offers a SaaS-based software solution for secondary, vocational, and higher education institutions. Their platform enables education institutions to improve their planning processes and optimize their scheduling.
Book&Learn merged with Edvisor,
synopsis: Vancouver-based Edvisor and Mexico City-based Book&Learn – both software providers that offer agencies course search, quoting and booking tools – have announced that they will be merging, bringing more than 7,500 agency users and 1,500 schools together.
buyer: Edvisor
Edvisor an online SaaS platform that connects schools that recruit international students directly with the agencies that sell their courses abroad. Schools list their offerings and entry requirements so that agents can access current program information and enroll their students directly. "
target: Book&Learn
Book&Learn is the leading quotation, booking and CRM for the international education industry with over 3,000 active agents and +1,000 schools.
Transaction Services Group, acquired PerfectMind Inc.
synopsis: TSG, an Advent portfolio company and leading global provider of business management software, integrated payments, and value-added services to the Health and Fitness, Childcare and Education, and Boutique markets, has acquired PerfectMind Inc., a provider of software for the Parks and Recreation industry, primarily in Canada and the United States.
buyer parent: Advent International
buyer: Transaction Services Group
TSG (Transaction Services Group) is a leading revenue management solutions company that provides business management software, integrated payments, and value-added services to clients around the globe. TSG's focus is on the health and fitness, childcare and early education, and boutique markets. "
target: PerfectMind Inc.
PerfectMind Inc., based in British Columbia, is the creator of an activity registration, facility booking, and membership management platform. It serves member-based organizations including municipalities, residents' associations, school districts, academic institutions, and recreation centers.
Embrace Software Inc., acquired Class Systems
synopsis: Embrace Software, a Montreal based company focused on the acquisition and operation of niche software, has acquired Infospeed, a provider of enterprise software solutions specialised for the language school industry. Infospeed's flagship product Class Systems is a cloud-based administration and booking system.
buyer: Embrace Software Inc.
Embrace acquires and operates niche software that provides industry specific solutions. Embrace believes best practices followed by enterprise software are equally relevant for small software businesses. "
target: Class Systems
Infospeed's flagship product, Class Systems, is a cloud-based administration and booking system that manages all the business needs of schools. Since 1989, Class language school software has been popular worldwide, used by over 2,200 people in more than 250 schools.
Ticker: ASX:RDY
ReadyTech Holdings Limited
ReadyTech is an Australian provider of people management software for employment and education. ReadyTech offers a complete student management system for institutions and training organisations. For employers they offer a complete payroll, HR admin and work health and safety management system.
18b8869f-a44f-4ca7-8422-6e7590b8b5c3


MY E.G.sees higher revenue and profit this year
By SHILING WOON
Thursday, 30 Nov 2006
KUALA LUMPUR: Electronic-Government service provider My E.G. Services Bhd sees it revenue touching RM22.9mil and profit after tax to hit RM7.9mil this financial year.
This would be partly the result of the upgrading of it's existing products and services to enhance customers service, said executive chairman Datuk Dr Norraesah Mohamad.
She added that the company also intended to introduce two new products and services to boost earnings in the current fiscal year.
The company posted a net profit of RM4.1mil on the back of RM19.3mil for financial year ended June 30.
"We are confident of achieving the projected numbers as MY E.G is one of the three electronic services provider that has a concession agreement with the government for 15 years.
"The agreement was to design and develop electronic delivery of driver and vehicle registration, licensing and summons services, as well as utility bill payments via information communication technology (ICT)," she said after the launch of MY E.G prospectus on Thursday.
Norraesah added that the company's main revenue growth was from the government sector.
MY E.G is in the midst of negotiation with the National Registration Department (NGD) on offering it's CGC products and services.
These services are expected to roll out next year.
"We intend to set up another 100 kiosks next year after the roll out of our services for NGD to meet the growing customers' demand," said Norraesah.
She added that the company planned to allocate about RM100,000 on setting each kiosk.
At present it has 30 kiosks.
Another division, government enterprise solutions (GES), a non-Internet based service includes provision of software and enterprise solutions, system development and maintenance, as well as services rendered at the company's Electronic Service Centres.
It offered services such as test taking and ancillary facilities, transmission of vehicle insurance data and ancillary services for electronic-insolvency.
In addition, the company planned to spread their wings in the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan within the next two years.
"We are keen to introduce our ICT technologies into these countries. However, we are still in an early stage of discussions with some potential partners, nothing is concrete for the time being," she said.
MY E.G is targeting a listing on the Mesdaq market on Jan 16 next year.
The company is issuing 25.5 million shares of 10 sen each at an issue price of 55 sen each.
The initial public offering is expected to raise RM14mil, of which RM10.8mil has been allocated for capital expenditure, RM1.38mil for working capital and the remaining RM1.8mil for listing expenses.


Phased retirement, contractor performance, buying cyber threats and more
By FCW Staff
OPM outlines phased retirement rule
The Office of Personnel Management released the final rule for the much-awaited phased retirement program Aug. 7, and now the next move is the hands of federal agencies.
Phased retirement is a human resources tool that allows full-time employees to work part-time schedules while beginning to draw retirement benefits. After reaching retirement eligibility, the employees work part-time while collecting half their annuity rate; participants are also required to spend 20 percent of their time mentoring other employees.
"Phased retirement provides a new tool that allows managers to better provide unique mentoring opportunities for employees while increasing access to the decades of institutional knowledge and experience that retirees can provide," OPM Director Katherine Archuleta said in a statement announcing the rule.
Now that the rules have been released, it will be up to agencies to establish plans that define criteria for the program, including which employees and positions are eligible.
"For many federal employees, this program has been a long time in coming," National Treasury Employees Union President Colleen Kelley said. "NTEU pushed for the legislation on Capitol Hill, pushed OPM to issue the final rules, and now will push federal agencies to develop programs."
The Phased Retirement final regulations will go into effect three months from Aug. 8, and agencies can send their applications starting Nov. 6.
GAO: Many agencies not adequately tracking contractor performance
Although federal agencies have gotten better at reporting on their contractors' past performance, compliance with federal reporting rules remains uneven, according to a new Government Accountability Office study.
The Office of Federal Procurement Policy's strategy to improve the reporting of past-performance information relies on increased oversight and enhancements to guidance and acquisition regulations, said the study. OFPP has been pushing agencies to improve past-performance reports, including sending memos, developing a compliance tracking tool, setting performance requirements and consolidating systems to enter past performance data.
But GAO found the rate of compliance varies widely by agency, with most falling far short of OFPP targets.
GAO listed 10 agencies along with their compliance rates. The Department of Defense topped the compliance list with 83 percent in April 2014, while the General Services Administration was at the bottom with 13 percent during the same period -- although GSA did jump up from 3 percent in fiscal 2013.
Geer: Buy up cyber threats
Can the U.S. government buy its way to cybersecurity on the open market?
That's the basic idea proposed by In-Q-Tel Chief Information Security Officer Dan Geer, who gave an Aug. 6 talk at the Black Hat Security Conference entitled, "Cybersecurity as Realpolitik." Geer suggested that the U.S. government "openly corner the world market" on "zero-day" vulnerabilities and exploits -- those security holes that are as-yet-unknown to software makers and antivirus systems.
Wired reported on Geer's speech, quoting him as saying such a program would be cost-effective even if the U.S. said "show us a competing bid, and we'll give you 10 times" that price."
"We don't need intelligence on what weapons our adversaries have if we have something close to a complete inventory," of zero-day vulnerabilities, Geer argued, "and have shared that with all the affected software suppliers."
WhiteHouse.Gov removes fingerprinting code
WhiteHouse.Gov has removed from its website recently discovered code that could compromise user privacy, a White House spokesman told FCW.
Researchers from Princeton University and Belgium's KU Leuven University have said they found the "canvas fingerprinting" code on 5 percent of the world's 100,000 most popular websites.
San Francisco looking for innovators
The San Francisco Mayor's Office of Civic Innovation has openings for two new Mayor's Innovation Fellows, GCN reports.
The one-year is designed primarily for individuals with five to eight years of private-sector experience in technology and innovation fields. The deadline has been extended to Aug. 22.
Connect with the FCW staff on Twitter @FCWnow.


German cleric accused of pro-Hamas writings appointed interim J'lem provost
A German church in Jerusalem has appointed a new provost who is virulently anti-Semitic and pro-Hamas to pastor the landmark facility in the heart of the Old City.
Jens Peter Iven, a spokesman for the Church of the Redeemer, said the church will not dismiss Rainer Stuhlmann.
Stuhlmann wrote that the creation of the State of Israel was for the Palestinians a "reason for mourning" because Israel engaged in "expulsion, destruction, coercion and injustice."
"In recent years, military superiority has led Israel to brutally enforce its interests against Palestine," he wrote. "With an aggressive settlement policy, facts are created that narrow the scope of Palestine more and more."
Uli Tückmantel, editor-in-chief of the Westdeutsche Zeitung, said Stuhlmann's writing is, "one-sided finger-pointing against Israel in the propaganda style of Fatah and Hamas."
But Stuhlmann told the Jerusalem Post his quotes were taken out of context.
"I have been a friend of Israel for decades. For decades I have been engaged in the fight against all forms of antisemitism, including anti-semitism related to Israel," he responded. "[The] attacks against me are based on an article from which he quotes only two out of four sections [and] tears quotes out of context."
The War over Jewish History is not Fought on a Battlefield
Yeshua's broken-hearted plea - Reaffirmation, Not Replacement - Part 3
"World's First" Flexible Solar Film Factory Opens in Israel


Why New Mexico needs bail reform
On recommendation of the New Mexico Supreme Court, a bipartisan group of legislators has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 1, which would allow voters to decide whether to reform antiquated bail provisions in
Why New Mexico needs bail reform On recommendation of the New Mexico Supreme Court, a bipartisan group of legislators has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 1, which would allow voters to decide whether to reform antiquated bail provisions in Check out this story on lcsun-news.com: http://lcsun.co/1RuoP3N
Justice Charles W. Daniels Published 11:22 a.m. MT Jan. 17, 2016
On recommendation of the New Mexico Supreme Court, a bipartisan group of legislators has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 1, which would allow voters to decide whether to reform antiquated bail provisions in our state constitution. Currently, the constitution guarantees the right to get out of jail before trial for virtually all defendants, no matter how dangerous, if they can get their hands on enough money to post bond or if they can make payment arrangements with a bail bondsman.
The ability of a dangerous defendant to post a bail bond does nothing to protect victims, witnesses, police officers, or anyone else from injury or death. Under existing law, neither the released defendant nor a bondsman can lose a penny if the defendant commits new crimes, no matter how violent, while out on bond. And the defendant will usually be entitled to get out of jail again simply by posting a new bond on the new crimes.
The old money-for-freedom guarantee in our law not only endangers our communities, it results in packing our jails with low-risk defendants who pose no real threat to community safety but who do not have enough money to pay whatever price tag is set on their constitutional right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. In addition to the unfair impact on non-dangerous defendants and their families, this imposes costs on taxpayers who must pay for housing, guarding, feeding, and caring for people who do not need to be locked up. SJR1 would give New Mexico judges new authority to deny pretrial release altogether if clear and convincing evidence shows that detention of an accused felon is necessary to protect the safety of any other person or the community. Judges in federal courts and a number of other states have already been granted detention authority since Congress first authorized detention of dangerous defendants in the District of Columbia in 1970. The U.S. Supreme Court has held that the U.S. Constitution permits pretrial detention for proven dangerousness. Just a year ago, the Legislature and voters of New Jersey amended their own antiquated state constitution to give their judges detention authority.
By replacing money-based-release with evidence-based-release, SJR 1 would continue to protect the pretrial presumption of innocence. It would guarantee that non-dangerous defendants who are otherwise entitled to release would not be jailed simply because they lack the financial resources to post a particular bond. Any monetary bond a judge sets simply has to be set at or adjusted to a level within a non-dangerous defendant's means. This guarantee is already a part of federal law and the law of many defendant's means. This guarantee is already a part of federal law and the law of many states, and federal courts have squarely held that bond schedules denying pretrial release simply for lack of financial resources violate the federal Constitution. Many interested New Mexico organizations have studied the proposed amendment and all -- with the notable exception of the commercial bail bond industry -- have pledged their support. Supporting organizations include the New Mexico District Attorneys' Association, the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, the New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association, the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, and the Criminal Justice Reform Policy Committee of the New Mexico Association of Counties.
The New Mexico Supreme Court also has formally endorsed the proposal. While our court rarely takes a stand on proposed constitutional changes, we know that the antiquated bail provisions of current law make it impossible for our judges to both protect our communities against dangerous defendants and honor existing constitutional rights of the accused. If our judges enforce the law as it now stands, they must permit release on bail for defendants who predictably will prey on others – and incur the wrath of those who do not understand that judges must honor the law even when they believe the law should be changed. If judges were to misuse bond setting to try to ensure detention instead of to ensure return to court after release, they would violate both the rights of the defendant and their own judicial oaths to uphold the law as it is written, all without the procedural safeguards that should be required for outright denial of pretrial release. The status quo is simply unacceptable. SJR1 would permit our judges to protect New Mexicans against dangerous defendants without sacrificing the rights of non-dangerous defendants. Passage of the proposal is not just a needed reform; it is literally a matter of life and death.
Charles W. Daniels is a justice on the New Mexico Supreme Court.
Read or Share this story: http://lcsun.co/1RuoP3N
Hemp may one day be as New Mexican as chile
Letters to the editor: On Trump, then and now
At peace with a home in the hills
Time is right to reform New Mexico tax code