#Heritage Insurance Holdings

[petnews2day]

Heritage Announces Full Placement of 2024-2025 CAT XOL Reinsurance Program

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/ewHmP

Heritage Announces Full Placement of 2024-2025 CAT XOL Reinsurance Program

TAMPA, Fla., April 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HRTG) (“Heritage” or the “Company”), a super-regional property and casualty insurance holding company announced today that it fully placed its 2024-2025 indemnity based, catastrophe excess-of-loss reinsurance program for its insurance subsidiaries, Heritage Property Casualty Insurance Company, Narragansett Bay Insurance Company, and Zephyr Insurance Company. […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/ewHmP #CatsNews #HeritageInsuranceHoldings, #Inc

[epitome-of-words]

All I Think About is Palestine

All I think about is Palestine.

I sit at my desk at work,

designing buildings 

All I can think is

"70% of homes in Gaza don't exist anymore, they have been reduced to piles of rubble, flattened into the earth by the bombs and tanks of the Israeli Occupation Force"

All I think about is Palestine

I have a discussion

about schooling

with a childhood friend

I mention that 

I minored in Anthropology

All I can think is

"More than 200 heritage and archeological sites in Palestine have been wiped from the map - places of culture and historical significance that the next generation will never see."

All I think about is Palestine

I make myself dinner

in a skillet on my stove

It is not the onion

that is making me cry

I reach for the olive oil

and my hand shakes

All I can think is

"The world's oldest olive trees are burning, and their tenders scream because the olive trees cannot, and then their tenders burn too."

All I think about is Palestine

It is raining outside

I sit by the window

as it tips and taps

agains the glass

warm mug of something

in my hands

All I can think is

"It is illegal, for the people of Palestine to collect rainwater, it is illegal for the people of Palestine to own wells, it seems that to Israel it is illegal for the people of Palestine to be anything but thirsty"

All I think about is Palestine

I go to the craft store 

to buy paint

"It is a punishable offense for Palestinians to create with the colors of their flag - not even to paint a watermelon"

I pull on my favorite sweater

my alma mater's name

emblazoned across the chest

"Every Palestinian University has been bombed by Israel"

I go to the library

for books and to research

"60% of Bookshops and Libraries in Gaza have been decimated, desecrated, and destroyed."

A school bus drives by

full of children

"Many schools in Gaza are no longer places of education, and instead play host to occupying forces who tear up finger paintings and rip up essays, and decide this will be their next military base."

I hear the ambulance no actually

I hear a six year old crying

"I'm so scared, please come"

I watch a mother

put her child in a car seat

"A woman dragged her two children fourteen kilometers, nearly nine miles, in their car seats - do you remember that photo? I remember that photo"

I get my pay stub

fourteen dollars 

goes to my health insurance 

"In Gaza, children are being amputated, women are giving birth, men are undergoing surgery - and there is no anesthesia for any of them"

My birthday was in December

I turned 26

My brother's birthday is in April

He's turning 23

"Motaz just turned 25, Plestia just turned 22, Bisan was born the same year as me."

I pay my taxes

and scream into a pillow

"My money is being used to kill Palestinians"

My mom asks me,

why I don't post 

my makeup looks to Instagram anymore

"It will not help Palestine"

I write to my congressmen

- another shipment of arms goes to Israel

I call my senators

- they put me on hold

I make a donation

- the funds are frozen

All.

I.

Think.

About.

Is.

Palestine.

[handeaux]

A Secret Organization Scoured Cincinnati For Bolsheviks But Found Only A Schoolgirl

It is inevitable, once you have created an organization to snitch on your neighbors, that you will find neighbors to snitch on. So it was with the American Protective League.

The American Protective League emerged from the jingoistic fervor that gripped America during the First World War. According to Steven L. Wright [Queen City Heritage, Winter 1988]:

“The American Protective League (APL) organized in Chicago in March 1917, had units in 600 cities and a membership roster of nearly 100,000. And by 1918 membership had grown to 250,000. Its membership consisted of bankers, businessmen, attorneys, chamber of commerce leaders and insurance company executives. Because of their ‘high’ position, they easily obtained information concerning ‘troublesome’ citizens, especially those who opposed the draft.”

Nationally, the APL received quasi-legal status as an affiliate of the federal Department of Justice. Locally, the Cincinnati branch of the APL was instrumental in arresting thirteen socialists who were charged with treason for circulating literature opposed to the military draft. Those charges would eventually be dismissed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1924.

With the conclusion of hostilities, the APL technically disbanded on 31 January 1919 when Gerson J. Brown, the wholesale tobacconist who led the Cincinnati chapter, turned over all League records to Calvin S. Weakley, special agent of the Department of Justice. Even though the organization ceased to exist, however, some members insisted on carrying on the work of the League. Germany’s surrender had revealed, according to these men, a new and even more sinister enemy working to conquer America – Bolshevism. John L. Richey, head of the Cincinnati Association of Credit Men, announced through several very public speeches that his position as chief investigator of the American Protective League had revealed to him that Bolshevism was alive and well in Cincinnati. According to the Enquirer [9 January 1919]:

“Mr. Richey declared speakers at recent meetings in Cincinnati had advocated immediate revolution and deliberate assassination of public officials who could not be influenced as part of the Bolshevist doctrine. There has been an increase, Mr. Richey said, in the Bolshevist movement in Cincinnati from 500 members 60 days ago, to a membership of a few more than 3,000 today.”

Not quite a week later, the Cincinnati Post [14 January 1919] announced that Richey now estimated a Cincinnati cabal of Bolshevists, International Workers of the World, and various other radical fellow travelers had more than 7,000 members. Richey pledged to continue his investigative work in Cincinnati despite the dissolution of the American Protective League through a new “secret patriotic organization.” According to Richey:

“Members of these groups of radicals, or revolutionists, are guided by a national head, who directs from New York and Philadelphia. Cincinnatians in the organizations principally are foreign born. There are Germans, Italians, Russians, and Hungarians, with some malcontent Americans.”

In a statement that foreshadowed the Red-baiting tactics of Senator Joseph McCarthy thirty years later, Richey predicted that eight to ten Cincinnati officials would soon resign once the Justice Department digested the reports submitted by the American Protective League. By February 1919, Richey’s estimate of Cincinnati radicals had reached 10,000, holding regular meetings to urge the “seizure of banks, manufacturing plants, and private property.”

Richey repeatedly asserted that the Cincinnati Board of Education fanned the flames of Bolshevism here by allowing teachers to spread radical propaganda. After all his stomping and fuming, Richey had trouble producing a single Bolshevik. Nevertheless, he told the Cincinnati Post [3 February 1919], he knew exactly where to find one:

“The home of a Cincinnati school girl, the alleged meeting place of supporters of Bolshevism, is being watched by the secret patriotic organization of which John L. Richey is head, he said Monday. Richey told of existence of a Bolshevik school where students are taught principles of Bolshevism and urged to spread them in educational institutions. A Woodward High School pupil is leader in the movement, according to Richey.”

The moment Richey made that accusation, the city turned against him and his “secret patriotic organization.” The pupil in question was Rose Simkin, aged 19, who had immigrated from Russia six years earlier. Since that time, she had been employed at the Cross Overall Company while studying in the morning before work and in the evening after work at Woodward High School, hoping to earn citizenship. She told the Post [7 February 1919]:

“I hardly know what Bolshevism means. I am an American. I didn’t even know it was I who was being talked about until told so by the school authorities. Ever since I have been in America and lived in this free country I have thought of nothing except what a wonderful land this is.”

Miss Simkin pointed to her bookshelves, filled with volumes by Poe, Shakespeare and other classic authors and defied Richey to find any hint of subversive literature.

Helen T. Wooley of the Cincinnati School Board was outraged by Richey’s accusations against Rose Simkin.

“There has been excessive zeal in trying to uncover un-American plots and in this case they have hit an innocent girl.”

The American Israelite pointed out that Rose Simkin’s brothers were serving in Palestine as part of the British army there and that Richey may not have known the difference between Zionism and Bolshevism – a not-so-subtle accusation of anti-Semitism. Mainline organizations such as the City Club and the Women’s City Club passed resolutions condemning Richey’s accusations.

As the Simkin debacle faded, so did Richey’s “secret patriotic organization.” When Richey died in 1962, his obituary made no mention of the American Protective League or his secret organization.

In 1920, Rose Simkin married Edward Trieman, her father’s partner in a Race Street haberdashery. She lived to be 70 and gave birth to a son who became a doctor. Her tombstone identifies her as “A Devoted Daughter In Israel.”

[tokidokitokyo]

栃木県

Japanese Prefectures: Kantō - Tochigi

都道府県 (とどうふけん) - Prefectures of Japan

Learning the kanji and a little bit about each of Japan’s 47 prefectures!

Kanji・漢字

栃　とち　horse chestnut

木　き、こ～、ボク、モク　tree, wood

県　ケン　prefecture

関東　かんとう　Kanto, region consisting of Tokyo and surrounding prefectures

Prefectural Capital (県庁所在地) : Utsunomiya (宇都宮市)

One of only eight land-locked prefectures in Japan, Tochigi prefecture is famous for gyoza and strawberries. It is also home to Japan's oldest school of higher education, the Ashikaga Gakkō, and is home to the Tōshō-gū shrine, dedicated to the shogun who unified Japan, Tokugawa Ieyasu, in the city of Nikkō.

Tochigi lies just north of Tokyo, and is accessible in less than an hour by bullet train. Nasu is the location of one of the imperial family's villas, and hot springs near Nasu and Shiobara mountains are popular resort spots. In the southeast of Tochigi, the town of Mashiko is renowned for its simple but highly prized ceramics.

Recommended Tourist Spot・おすすめ観光スポット World Heritage Site Nikkō Tōshōgū - 世界遺産・日光東照宮

Nikkō is closely associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, who unified the country after a century of warfare and founded the Tokugawa shogunate. Ieyasu retired and then passed away in present-day Shizuoka Prefecture, and was laid to rest at Kunōzan. In 1617, his remains were moved to Nikkō and he was deified as the protector of the eight Kantō provinces.

Ieyasu’s remains were reinterred at the temple Rinnōji in Nikkō, and his successor Hidetada erected the Tōshōsha in his honor. The third Tokugawa shogun Iemitsu had great respect for Ieyasu and ordered the original shrine renovated, having the country’s most skilled artisans create the richly decorated buildings that stand today. The work was completed in 1636, and nine years later the imperial court bestowed the name Tōshōgū on the shrine.

Nikkō Tōshōgū boasts eight buildings designated as national treasures and thirty-four structures selected as important cultural properties. Some of these impressive cultural properties include the 9.2-meter-tall stone torii marking the entrance and the five-storied pagoda nearby, as well as the Yōmeimon, a richly decorated gate with over 500 carvings depicting fables and saints. This magnificent gate holds an ancient superstition, which said that completing it might lead to the collapse of the Tokugawa regime. To avoid this, the builders installed one of the twelve supporting pillars upside down, thus insuring that it remained incomplete.

For more photos and information check out: nippon.com

Regional Cuisine - 郷土料理 Gyoza Dumpling - 餃子

A statue of the goddess Venus wrapped in gyoza skin outside Utsunomiya Station (source)

“Utsunomiya Gyoza” is an important part of the culinary culture of Utsunomiya City. The city has over 300 gyoza restaurants, and queuing in front of your favorite restaurant or visiting multiple restaurants is quite common. The restaurants compete to create unique recipes in order to be recognized as the best gyoza in the city. You can even join gyoza-making classes led by top chefs. There is also a gyoza association called the Utsunomiya Gyozakai that holds an annual festival in the beginning of November.

Tochigi Dialect・Tochigi-ben・栃木弁

こわい　kowai　tired

「とうと登ってたっけ、こわいから座ってもいいけ？」 touto nobottetakke, kowai kara suwatte mo iike?

Standard Japanese: 「ずっと登ってたし、疲れたから座ってもいい？」 (zutto nobottetashi, tsukareta kara suwatte mo ii?)

English: "I've been climbing for a while now, and I'm tired, so can I sit down?"

いかんべ　ikanbe　it's good

A: 「こんなもんで、いがっぺ？」 (konna mon de, igappe?) B: 「いかんべ。」 (ikanbe)

Standard Japanese: A: 「こんなもんで、いいでしょう？」 (konna mon de, ii deshou?) B: 「いいですよ。」 (ii desu yo)

English: A: "Is it okay if I do it like this?" B: "Yes, that's fine."

いじやける　ijiyakeru　irritated

「あの店員の態度、すげ～いじやける！」 (ano tenin no taido, suge～ijiyakeru!)

Standard Japanese: 「あの店員の態度、凄くイライラする！」 (ano tenin no taido, sugoku iraira suru!)

English: "That store clerk's attitude, is so irritating!"

だいじだ　daiji　no problem

A: 「だいじ？」　(daiji?) B: 「だいじだいじ！」　(daiji daiji!)

Standard Japanese: A: 「大丈夫？」　(daijyoubu?) B: 「大丈夫、大丈夫！」　(daijyoubu, daijyoubu!)

English: A: "Is it ok?" B: "No problem, no problem!"

あかなす　akanasu　tomato (lit. red eggplant)

Standard Japanese: トマト (tomato) English: tomato

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Christopher Wiggins at The Advocate:

As Americans prepare to tune in to one of the most anticipated presidential debates in recent history, GLAAD has released a provocative new ad warning voters of the dangers posed by the Republican-backed Project 2025 plan. The ad, “The Playbook,” is the latest in a trilogy of national campaigns launched by the LGBTQ+ media advocacy organization to expose what it describes as the plan’s severe economic and social consequences. Timed just hours before presidential hopefuls Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump take the stage, the ad aims at the detailed 900-page manifesto developed by the conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation. The controversial plan calls for radical changes to the U.S. government, including dismantling protections for LGBTQ+ Americans, raising taxes on the middle class, and rolling back worker rights. According to GLAAD, Project 2025 is an existential threat not just to LGBTQ+ people but to all Americans who value democratic institutions and civil liberties. Narrated in stark, urgent tones, the ad warns that Project 2025 would empower corporate elites and strip everyday Americans of fundamental rights and protections. In the 30-second spot, the narrator describes the plan as a “costly blueprint” designed to enrich corporations at the expense of working families. The ad goes on to emphasize several troubling aspects of the proposal, including a new tax on health insurance, eliminating overtime pay for workers, and barring Medicare from negotiating lower drug prices.

[...] “The Playbook” is the third in a series of ads in GLAAD’s campaign against Project 2025, following the July release of “The Pledge.” That ad painted a dystopian vision of the future under a Republican administration intent on dismantling LGBTQ+ rights and pushing a conservative Christian nationalist agenda. In “The Pledge,” a classroom of children recites a chilling new version of the Pledge of Allegiance, swearing loyalty not to the nation but to the president and “the natural order of man and woman under God.”

LGBTQ+ advocacy group GLAAD released the 3rd ad of their Project 2025 trilogy series.

Ad:

[wikiweird]

Svalbard Global Seed Vault

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is a secure seed bank located on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen, near Longyearbyen. It was established in 2008 as a global backup facility to preserve and protect the world's crop diversity in case of regional or global catastrophes.

Often referred to as the "Doomsday Vault," the seed vault is built into a mountainside and designed to withstand natural and human-made disasters, including earthquakes and nuclear war. It is situated in the permafrost, providing natural cooling and preserving the seeds at a constant low temperature.

The purpose of the seed vault is to safeguard the world's agricultural heritage and ensure the availability of diverse plant genetic resources for future generations. The vault acts as a repository, storing duplicate seed samples from gene banks around the world. These samples represent a wide range of important food crops and plant species.

The seed vault currently holds over one million different seed samples, with the capacity to store up to 4.5 million samples. It serves as a long-term insurance policy for global food security, as it allows for the reestablishment of crops in the event of a major regional or global catastrophe.

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is an important international initiative, symbolizing the collective efforts to safeguard the world's agricultural heritage and ensure the resilience of food systems.

Read more

[dailyanarchistposts]

A.1.2 What does “anarchism” mean?

To quote Peter Kropotkin, Anarchism is “the no-government system of socialism.” [Anarchism, p. 46] In other words, “the abolition of exploitation and oppression of man by man, that is the abolition of private property [i.e. capitalism] and government.” [Errico Malatesta, Towards Anarchism,”, p. 75]

Anarchism, therefore, is a political theory that aims to create a society which is without political, economic or social hierarchies. Anarchists maintain that anarchy, the absence of rulers, is a viable form of social system and so work for the maximisation of individual liberty and social equality. They see the goals of liberty and equality as mutually self-supporting. Or, in Bakunin’s famous dictum:

“We are convinced that freedom without Socialism is privilege and injustice, and that Socialism without freedom is slavery and brutality.” [The Political Philosophy of Bakunin, p. 269]

The history of human society proves this point. Liberty without equality is only liberty for the powerful, and equality without liberty is impossible and a justification for slavery.

While there are many different types of anarchism (from individualist anarchism to communist-anarchism — see section A.3 for more details), there has always been two common positions at the core of all of them — opposition to government and opposition to capitalism. In the words of the individualist-anarchist Benjamin Tucker, anarchism insists “on the abolition of the State and the abolition of usury; on no more government of man by man, and no more exploitation of man by man.” [cited by Eunice Schuster, Native American Anarchism, p. 140] All anarchists view profit, interest and rent as usury (i.e. as exploitation) and so oppose them and the conditions that create them just as much as they oppose government and the State.

More generally, in the words of L. Susan Brown, the “unifying link” within anarchism “is a universal condemnation of hierarchy and domination and a willingness to fight for the freedom of the human individual.” [The Politics of Individualism, p. 108] For anarchists, a person cannot be free if they are subject to state or capitalist authority. As Voltairine de Cleyre summarised:

“Anarchism … teaches the possibility of a society in which the needs of life may be fully supplied for all, and in which the opportunities for complete development of mind and body shall be the heritage of all … [It] teaches that the present unjust organisation of the production and distribution of wealth must finally be completely destroyed, and replaced by a system which will insure to each the liberty to work, without first seeking a master to whom he [or she] must surrender a tithe of his [or her] product, which will guarantee his liberty of access to the sources and means of production… Out of the blindly submissive, it makes the discontented; out of the unconsciously dissatisfied, it makes the consciously dissatisfied … Anarchism seeks to arouse the consciousness of oppression, the desire for a better society, and a sense of the necessity for unceasing warfare against capitalism and the State.” [Anarchy! An Anthology of Emma Goldman’s Mother Earth, pp. 23–4]

So Anarchism is a political theory which advocates the creation of anarchy, a society based on the maxim of “no rulers.” To achieve this, ”[i]n common with all socialists, the anarchists hold that the private ownership of land, capital, and machinery has had its time; that it is condemned to disappear: and that all requisites for production must, and will, become the common property of society, and be managed in common by the producers of wealth. And… they maintain that the ideal of the political organisation of society is a condition of things where the functions of government are reduced to minimum… [and] that the ultimate aim of society is the reduction of the functions of government to nil — that is, to a society without government, to an-archy” [Peter Kropotkin, Op. Cit., p. 46]

Thus anarchism is both positive and negative. It analyses and critiques current society while at the same time offering a vision of a potential new society — a society that fulfils certain human needs which the current one denies. These needs, at their most basic, are liberty, equality and solidarity, which will be discussed in section A.2.

Anarchism unites critical analysis with hope, for, as Bakunin (in his pre-anarchist days) pointed out, “the urge to destroy is a creative urge.” One cannot build a better society without understanding what is wrong with the present one.

However, it must be stressed that anarchism is more than just a means of analysis or a vision of a better society. It is also rooted in struggle, the struggle of the oppressed for their freedom. In other words, it provides a means of achieving a new system based on the needs of people, not power, and which places the planet before profit. To quote Scottish anarchist Stuart Christie:

“Anarchism is a movement for human freedom. It is concrete, democratic and egalitarian … Anarchism began — and remains — a direct challenge by the underprivileged to their oppression and exploitation. It opposes both the insidious growth of state power and the pernicious ethos of possessive individualism, which, together or separately, ultimately serve only the interests of the few at the expense of the rest. “Anarchism is both a theory and practice of life. Philosophically, it aims for the maximum accord between the individual, society and nature. Practically, it aims for us to organise and live our lives in such a way as to make politicians, governments, states and their officials superfluous. In an anarchist society, mutually respectful sovereign individuals would be organised in non-coercive relationships within naturally defined communities in which the means of production and distribution are held in common. “Anarchists are not dreamers obsessed with abstract principles and theoretical constructs … Anarchists are well aware that a perfect society cannot be won tomorrow. Indeed, the struggle lasts forever! However, it is the vision that provides the spur to struggle against things as they are, and for things that might be … “Ultimately, only struggle determines outcome, and progress towards a more meaningful community must begin with the will to resist every form of injustice. In general terms, this means challenging all exploitation and defying the legitimacy of all coercive authority. If anarchists have one article of unshakeable faith, it is that, once the habit of deferring to politicians or ideologues is lost, and that of resistance to domination and exploitation acquired, then ordinary people have a capacity to organise every aspect of their lives in their own interests, anywhere and at any time, both freely and fairly. “Anarchists do not stand aside from popular struggle, nor do they attempt to dominate it. They seek to contribute practically whatever they can, and also to assist within it the highest possible levels of both individual self-development and of group solidarity. It is possible to recognise anarchist ideas concerning voluntary relationships, egalitarian participation in decision-making processes, mutual aid and a related critique of all forms of domination in philosophical, social and revolutionary movements in all times and places.” [My Granny made me an Anarchist, pp. 162–3]

Anarchism, anarchists argue, is simply the theoretical expression of our capacity to organise ourselves and run society without bosses or politicians. It allows working class and other oppressed people to become conscious of our power as a class, defend our immediate interests, and fight to revolutionise society as a whole. Only by doing this can we create a society fit for human beings to live in.

It is no abstract philosophy. Anarchist ideas are put into practice everyday. Wherever oppressed people stand up for their rights, take action to defend their freedom, practice solidarity and co-operation, fight against oppression, organise themselves without leaders and bosses, the spirit of anarchism lives. Anarchists simply seek to strengthen these libertarian tendencies and bring them to their full fruition. As we discuss in section J, anarchists apply their ideas in many ways within capitalism in order to change it for the better until such time as we get rid of it completely. Section I discusses what we aim to replace it with, i.e. what anarchism aims for.

[travelingfevah]

Machu Picchu Beyond the Stones, Into the Mysteries

https://TravelingFevah.com - Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is not just an archaeological site but a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient Incan civilization. Dating back to the 15th century, this remarkable citadel is shrouded in mystery and intrigue, captivating the hearts and minds of travelers from around the globe. 

Historical Significance: Machu Picchu was constructed during the height of the Inca Empire, under the reign of Emperor Pachacuti. Its purpose remains a subject of debate among historians, with theories ranging from a royal estate to a religious sanctuary or a strategic military outpost. Regardless of its original function, Machu Picchu served as a symbol of Incan power and achievement. 

 Architectural Marvel: What sets Machu Picchu apart is its sophisticated stone architecture, characterized by meticulously cut and fitted stones without the use of mortar. The precision of the construction, particularly evident in structures like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone, demonstrates the Incas' mastery of engineering and craftsmanship. Breathtaking Panoramic Views: Perched atop a ridge overlooking the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. 

The site's strategic location amidst the Andean peaks adds to its mystique, with clouds often swirling around the peaks, enhancing the ethereal ambiance. Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Machu Picchu holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for the indigenous Quechua people of Peru. It is believed to be a sacred site with astronomical alignments and ritualistic purposes, serving as a link between the earthly realm and the celestial heavens. The Intihuatana stone, often referred to as the "Hitching Post of the Sun," is thought to have been used for astronomical observations and ceremonies. Modern-Day Wonder: 

Today, Machu Picchu is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It attracts visitors from all corners of the globe, drawn not only by its historical and architectural marvels but also by the sense of awe and wonder that pervades its ancient ruins. In summary, Machu Picchu is more than just a collection of ancient ruins; it is a window into the rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization. Its breathtaking beauty, coupled with its enigmatic history, continues to inspire and enchant travelers seeking to unravel its mysteries and experience its timeless allure. 

Thanks for watching, don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated when we're putting out new content for you. You can download your FREE Guide: "The Budget Traveler's Handbook" and get cheap flights, cheap hotels, cheap destinations, cheap car rentals, cheap traveler insurance at: https://TravelingFevah.com 

#MachuPicchu, #IncaCivilization, #AncientRuins, #PeruTravel, #UNESCOWorldHeritage, #TravelDestination, #BucketListTravel, #HistoricalSite, #AndesMountains, #SouthAmericaTravel, #ArchaeologicalSite, #LostCity, #PeruvianHistory, #MountainTreks, #CulturalHeritage, #TravelAdventure, #Wanderlust, #ExploreMachuPicchu, #IncaTrail, #HikingExpedition, #MountainViews, #HistoricalWonders

[m4zed]

NPCS : Ariadne's (adoptive) parents

Aretta Chapuis (née Olowe)

Aretta is born into a family of second generation immigrants from Nigeria in Liverpool. In her youth she used to ride in her free time & dreamed of becoming a professional equestrian. Instead she ends up as the first in her family to go to university, attending courses for psychology and economics. After some more qualification Aretta starts working as a insurance broker, specializing in healthcare. At the age of 26 she takes a job in Manchester & this where she meets Gérard. He proposes a year into their relationship and for a while the couple lives in Manchester and Paris. They do want children, but feel no rush about it & are fine just enjoying their life together as it is. Eventually they settle in a beautiful little house in Bradford-upon-Avon, with Aretta commuting to Bath for work. At this point she's given up the thought of biological children and they decide to try adoption. This is how Ariadne comes into the picture. The 5-year-old orphan instantly wins their hearts and quickly becomes the centre of their world. Both Aretta and Gérard dedicate themselves to raising the child and surround them with unconditional love. As soon as Ariadne is old enough to understand, they also explain the adoption to them, so they have been aware of that early on. Knowing how it feels to be disconnected from your heritage, Aretta does her best to support Ariadne in that regard and they even make a trip to China together. When Ariadne comes out as a lesbian to their parents, it gets the ball rolling for Aretta & educating herself leads to acknowledging her own bisexuality. With her child studying abroad, Aretta also discovers painting as a hobby.

Gérard Chapuis

Gérard hails from a small village in Southern France, where he grew up with four siblings & surrounded by cows. While he loves nature, he dreams of getting out & making his own way. That eventually brings him to Marseilles & he starts an apprenticeship with a carpenter. If it teaches him anything it's that Gérard enjoys being on the move, getting his own hands dirty. During that time he gets his first camera & it turns into a full obsession. Enough for him to quit carpentry & apply for jobs in photography (in the meantime depending on retail jobs to support himself). It takes a few years & more training, but slowly Gérard starts building a name for himself & enjoys travelling through Europe and beyond. In Manchester he meets Aretta and they bond over their shared love for animals. After a short time, he decides to stay in England to be with her & they get married. Since he mostly works from home anyway, Gérard takes a step back when Ariadne is little & stays with them. Perhaps that established the close bond between them, because while Ariadne loves Aretta with their whole heart, Gérard holds a very special place & the two of them are very close. To this day Ariadne enjoys travelling with their father & they're very grateful for Gérard's connections in Paris that helped with flat and the university when they moved there.

[overseaseducationlane07]

GKS Scholarship 2025: Your Gateway to Studying in South Korea

Are you dreaming of studying in South Korea, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, advanced technology, and world-class education? The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 is your golden opportunity. Offered by the Korean government, this fully funded scholarship enables international students to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in South Korea. Here’s everything you need to know about this prestigious program.

What is the GKS Scholarship?

The Global Korea Scholarship, previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), aims to strengthen global ties by inviting talented individuals worldwide to study in South Korea. GKS not only covers tuition but also provides comprehensive financial support, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships for international students.

Benefits of the GKS Scholarship

Full Tuition Coverage: Recipients enjoy complete tuition coverage for their chosen degree program, removing financial barriers to high-quality education.

Monthly Stipend: The scholarship provides a generous monthly allowance to cover living expenses, helping students focus on their studies.

Airfare: Round-trip flight tickets are provided, easing the cost of international travel.

Language Training: Scholars undergo a one-year Korean language course to ensure a smooth transition to academic life and cultural integration.

Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage is included to address any medical needs during your stay.

Eligibility Criteria for GKS 2025

Nationality:Applicants must hold citizenship in a country invited to participate in the GKS program. Dual citizens (Korean and another nationality) are not eligible.

Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs: Must have completed high school by the start of the program. For graduate programs: A bachelor's or master's degree is required, depending on the intended course of study.

Age:- Undergraduate: Under 25 years old at the start of the program. Graduate: Under 40 years old.

Health: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health, ensuring they can fully participate in academic life.

Application Process for GKS 2025

1.Choose Your Track: - Embassy Track:Apply through the South Korean embassy in your home country. - University Track: Apply directly to a South Korean university participating in the GKS program.

Prepare Required Documents: - Academic transcripts and certificates - Letters of recommendation - A personal statement and study plan - Medical clearance form

Submit Your Application:Follow the guidelines provided by the embassy or university. Each track has its own application deadline and requirements, so double-check details specific to your country or institution.

Interview:Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, either in person or virtually.

Final Selection:Successful applicants will receive confirmation of their selection and start their journey to South Korea.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early:Gather all necessary documents well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Showcase Your Passion:Your personal statement and study plan should reflect your genuine interest in studying in South Korea and how it aligns with your career goals.

Research Thoroughly:Understand the programs and universities you’re applying to and tailor your application accordingly.

Seek Guidance:Reach out to past GKS scholars or local Korean cultural centers for insights into the application process.

Why Choose South Korea for Higher Education?

South Korea boasts some of the world’s top universities, advanced research facilities, and a vibrant cultural landscape. Studying here offers academic excellence, global networking opportunities, and a chance to experience one of the most dynamic economies in Asia.

Final Thoughts

The GKS Scholarship 2025 is more than just financial support—it’s an opportunity to transform your academic and professional journey. If you’re eager to explore new horizons, gain international experience, and immerse yourself in a unique culture, this scholarship could be your ticket to success.

Applications open:- Consult Now Instagram:-  https://www.instagram.com/p/DCZDZPayis9/

[daphenominchief]

Manila Prince Hotel vs. Government Service Insurance System G.R. No. 122156, February 3, 1997

FACTS:

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) decided to sell 51% of the shares of the Manila Hotel Corporation (MHC), which owns the historic Manila Hotel.

A public bidding was conducted, and two entities participated: Manila Prince Hotel Corporation (a Filipino corporation) and Renong Berhad (a Malaysian firm).

Renong Berhad submitted the highest bid, while Manila Prince Hotel Corporation submitted a lower bid.

Manila Prince Hotel Corporation invoked the Filipino First Policy enshrined in the 1987 Constitution, specifically Section 10, second paragraph, Article XII, which states that in the grant of rights, privileges, and concessions covering the national economy and patrimony, the State shall give preference to qualified Filipinos.

Manila Prince Hotel argued that it should be allowed to match the highest bid of Renong Berhad, citing the constitutional preference for qualified Filipinos.

GSIS refused to accept the matching bid, contending that the constitutional provision was not self-executing and required implementing legislation. GSIS also claimed that the sale of shares did not involve the national patrimony and that GSIS was not part of the State.

The Manila Prince Hotel then filed a petition for prohibition and mandamus with a temporary restraining order to prevent the sale to the Malaysian firm.

The Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order enjoining the sale.

ISSUES:

Is Section 10, second paragraph, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution, the Filipino First Policy, a self-executing provision or does it require implementing legislation?

Does the sale of 51% of the shares of MHC, which owns the Manila Hotel, involve the national economy and patrimony, which is protected by the Constitution?

Is the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) part of the State, thus mandated to implement the Filipino First Policy?

Should the Filipino bidder be allowed to match the bid of the foreign bidder in this case?

RULING:

Answer: The Supreme Court granted the petition, holding that the Filipino First Policy is self-executing, the Manila Hotel is part of the national patrimony, GSIS is part of the State, and Manila Prince Hotel should be allowed to match the bid of Renong Berhad. The Court ordered GSIS to cease and desist from selling the shares to Renong Berhad and to accept the matching bid of Manila Prince Hotel.

Legal Basis:

Constitutional Supremacy: The Constitution is the fundamental and paramount law of the nation, and all laws and contracts must conform to it. Any law or contract that violates the Constitution is null and void.

Self-Executing Provisions: A constitutional provision is self-executing if the nature and extent of the right conferred and the liability imposed are fixed by the constitution itself and does not require supplementary legislation. The presumption is that all constitutional provisions are self-executing unless expressly stated otherwise.

National Patrimony: The national patrimony includes not only natural resources but also the cultural heritage of the nation.

State Action: Actions by persons or entities distinct from the government are considered "state action" when the activity involves a public function, the government is significantly involved, or the government has approved or authorized the action.

Filipino First Policy: In the grant of rights, privileges, and concessions covering the national economy and patrimony, the State shall give preference to qualified Filipinos. This policy is a product of Philippine nationalism and must be enforced.

Doctrine of Constitutional Interpretation: Unless expressly provided that a legislative act is necessary to enforce a constitutional mandate, the presumption is that all provisions of the constitution are self-executing. In case of doubt, the Constitution should be considered self-executing rather than non-self-executing.

Application:

The Court held that the second paragraph of Section 10, Article XII of the Constitution is self-executing because its language is a direct command and does not require implementing legislation to be operative. The provision is complete in itself and judicially enforceable.

The Court determined that the Manila Hotel is part of the national patrimony due to its historical and cultural significance. The sale of a controlling stake in the corporation that owns it is therefore covered by the constitutional protection.

The Court found that GSIS is a government instrumentality and thus part of the State, and its actions are subject to the constitutional command of the Filipino First Policy. The sale of the shares was also deemed a "state action" due to government approval.

The Court ruled that the Filipino First Policy means that a qualified Filipino must be given preference and be allowed to match the bid of a foreign entity. The Court stated that the constitutional mandate itself is sufficient reason not to award the block of shares immediately to the foreign bidder.

Conclusion: The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Manila Prince Hotel, ordering GSIS to accept the matching bid, upholding the Filipino First Policy, and reaffirming the importance of protecting the national patrimony.

DOCTRINE OF THE CASE:

The Filipino First Policy in the Constitution is a self-executing provision that does not require implementing legislation.

The term "national patrimony" includes both natural resources and cultural heritage, encompassing places of historical significance like the Manila Hotel.

The State includes all branches of government and its instrumentalities, and they are all mandated to uphold the Filipino First Policy.

Qualified Filipinos must be given preference in the grant of rights, privileges, and concessions covering the national economy and patrimony, and this may include the right to match the bid of a foreign entity.

RATIO OF THE CASE:

The ruling emphasizes the supremacy of the Constitution and the need for all state actions to conform to its mandates, especially in matters involving the national economy and patrimony.

It underscores that the Filipino First Policy is not merely a guideline but a mandatory provision that must be actively enforced by the State.

The decision highlights the importance of protecting national cultural heritage and ensuring that it is not simply treated as a commodity for sale.

The ruling clarifies that the Filipino First Policy aims to give preference to qualified Filipinos, even when a foreign entity offers a higher bid, to uphold national pride and dignity. It protects the interests of Filipinos and promotes their participation in the national economy.

The decision serves as a reminder that the State cannot evade its constitutional obligations by claiming that a provision is not self-executing or that a state entity is not part of the State.

The case clarifies the concept of "state action," including scenarios when government is significantly involved or when a government entity acts in selling an asset.

[amruthospital]

Cashless Hospital in Lucknow

Navigating healthcare can be overwhelming, especially during emergencies. One of the most significant concerns is managing finances alongside medical treatment. Luckily, Amrut Hospital, a leading cashless hospital in Lucknow, has streamlined this process, ensuring you focus solely on recovery without financial stress.

The Gift of Care Without Financial Worries

Imagine walking into a hospital during an emergency, your heart pounding not just from fear but from the thought of hefty bills. At Amrut Hospital, this fear melts away. Being a cashless hospital in Lucknow, it takes away the burden of immediate payments, giving families the solace they need to concentrate on their loved ones. It’s more than convenience; it’s a lifeline—a bridge between hope and healing.

A cashless hospital means you can access treatments without upfront payments, as long as your insurance provider supports it. This not only simplifies the process but ensures that no one is denied care due to financial barriers. Isn’t it comforting to know that there’s a place in Lucknow where life matters more than money?

Where Technology Meets Compassion

At Amrut Hospital, modern medical technology intertwines with a compassionate approach. From the moment a patient arrives, the cashless process begins effortlessly. Insurance claims are processed in real time, and dedicated staff ensure every detail is handled seamlessly.

Partnering with leading insurance providers, Amrut simplifies what is often an overwhelming process. Paperwork becomes painless, approvals are swift, and patients experience care that feels human—just as it should.

A Beacon of Hope for Every Heart

Every corridor of Amrut Hospital echoes with stories of resilience and recovery. There’s the tale of a young father, who after a life-saving surgery, hugged his daughter with tears of gratitude because he didn’t have to worry about upfront bills. Or the elderly woman who underwent emergency dialysis without her family scrambling for funds.

These stories aren’t just statistics; they’re lives touched, fears erased, and futures reclaimed—all because Amrut Hospital is a cashless hospital in Lucknow that believes everyone deserves a fighting chance.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Lucknow

Lucknow is a city rich in culture and heritage, but like many others, it faces gaps in accessible healthcare. Amrut Hospital stands as a bridge, ensuring that even the underprivileged have access to quality care. By embracing the cashless model, the hospital is leveling the playing field, proving that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

The Future of Healthcare in Lucknow

The concept of cashless hospitals is not just a trend; it’s a movement toward a healthier and happier society. Amrut Hospital leads this charge, envisioning a future where medical care is a given, not a gamble.

Here, healing is holistic. The soul is nurtured alongside the body. Every patient is not just a number but a story, a dream waiting to be fulfilled.

Your Health, Our Priority

Amrut Hospital isn’t just a place of healing; it’s a promise to the people of Lucknow—a promise to stand by them through life’s most challenging times. With its cashless services, it wipes away the tears of financial worry, leaving only the hope of recovery.

So, when life takes an unexpected turn, remember there’s a sanctuary that will hold you close, heal your wounds, and help you rise again. That sanctuary is Amrut Hospital, the epitome of what it means to be a cashless hospital in Lucknow.

[fabenzo-123]

Cultural Significance of Linen in Different Parts of the World

Linen is one of the oldest and most protean fabrics known to humankind, celebrated across societies for its natural beauty, continuity, and breathability. Its unique parcels and artistic associations make it a treasured material in fashion, home décor, and conventional use. In moment’s digital age, the availability of Pure Linen Fabric online has made it easier than ever to embrace this dateless material and its heritage. still, to truly appreciate linen, it’s essential to explore its significance in colorful corridor of the world.

Linen in Ancient Civilizations

Linen’s story begins thousands of times ago in ancient Egypt, where it represented chastity, wealth, and godly connection. Egyptians used linen not only for apparel but also in religious and burial rituals. Corpses were wrapped in finely woven linen, as the fabric was believed to insure a peaceful afterlife. The intricate artificer of Egyptian linen continues to inspire ultramodern fabric suckers.

In Europe, linen product flourished during the Middle periods, especially in Ireland, which came synonymous with high- quality linen. Irish linen was largely prized for its fine texture and continuity, and it played a crucial part in both original husbandry and transnational trade. Indeed moment, linen remains a foundation of Ireland’s artistic identity.

In Asia, linen gained elevation for its cooling parcels, making it a popular choice in regions with hot climates. Countries like China and Japan incorporated linen into traditional garments, showcasing its rigidity and comfort.

Linen Cloth Material in Modern Uses

The versatility of linen cloth material has assured its place in contemporary culture. In regions like the Mediterranean, linen continues to represent fineness and simplicity. It’s a chief in summer fashion, thanks to its capability to keep wear and tear cool in hot rainfall. Linen tablecloths and curtains are also a common sight in Mediterranean homes, reflecting a commitment to style and tradition.

In the United States, linen has gained fashionability as a sustainable andeco-friendly fabric. As mindfulness of environmental issues grows, further people are turning to linen for its biodegradable nature and lower environmental impact during product. Contrivers are embracing linen in apparel collections and interior design, combining aesthetics with sustainability.

In India, linen is being celebrated for its understated fineness and versatility. ultramodern contrivers are blending linen with traditional ways like block printing and embroidery, creating unique emulsion styles. It has also come a popular choice for office wear and tear and casual outfits, thanks to its featherlight and permeable rates.

The dateless Appeal of Plain Linen Fabric

Plain linen fabric holds a special place in the hearts of crafters and fashion suckers likewise. Its simplicity makes it an ideal oil for creative expression, whether through dyeing, embroidery, or weaving. In countries like France, plain linen fabric is frequently used for rustic home décor, reflecting the charm of the French country.

In Nordic countries, linen is nearly tied to minimalist design principles. Its natural texture and muted tones align impeccably with Scandinavian aesthetics, emphasizing functionality and beauty in simplicity.

Fabenzo: Your Destination for Premium Linen

For those seeking high- quality linen, Fabenzo is your trusted mate. Offering a curated selection of Pure Linen Fabric online , Fabenzo ensures that you have access to the finest accoutrements for your systems. Whether you’re looking for linen cloth material for garments or plain linen fabric for home décor, Fabenzo provides ultraexpensive options to suit every need.

With a focus on sustainability and authenticity, Fabenzo celebrates linen’s artistic heritage while making it accessible for ultramodern use. Explore their collection moment and experience the dateless fineness of linen for yourself.

[alyssaolson02]

A Raisin in the Sun Blog Post (By: Alyssa Olson)

Watching A Raisin in the Sun is like stepping into the lives of the Younger family, where each person’s dreams clash and connect in ways that feel raw and deeply human. This isn’t just a story about a family in the 1950s; it’s about the struggle to hold on to hope and dignity in a world that constantly tries to take it away. In my African studies class, this film has come to mean more than just a dramatic story—it's an emotional journey that reveals the complexities of race, identity, and resilience that African American families have faced for generations.

The film centers around the Younger family’s excitement—and eventual conflict—over a $10,000 life insurance check. Each family member has their own vision of what the money represents. Lena, the mother and heart of the family, dreams of buying a house in a better neighborhood, hoping to fulfill her lifelong wish of giving her family a home they can be proud of. Walter Lee, her son, sees the money as a way to break free from his low-wage job as a chauffeur and launch a business. Beneatha, Walter’s sister, wants to use it to go to medical school and defy expectations by becoming a doctor. Watching them fight and support each other over these dreams is so relatable—it’s easy to see our own families in their arguments, dreams, and sacrifices.

But A Raisin in the Sun is about more than just family dynamics. When the Youngers try to move into a white neighborhood, they face the brutal reality of systemic racism. Rather than welcoming them, the neighborhood tries to buy them out, clearly showing that not everyone believes they deserve the same opportunities. This moment hit hard because it’s not just history—it’s a reality many still experience today, where subtle and not-so-subtle ways of exclusion persist. In my African studies class, we talk a lot about how systemic barriers impact people’s lives, and this scene makes it painfully clear that even a step forward can come with a harsh push back.

What’s inspiring, though, is how the Youngers refuse to let others define them. They stick together and stand up for their right to live wherever they want, rejecting the buyout and showing that self-respect is more valuable than money. It’s an empowering moment that makes you think about the importance of pride, family, and staying true to yourself no matter the obstacles.

The film also dives into identity, especially through Beneatha’s journey of self-discovery. She explores African heritage, questioning the pressures around her and challenging stereotypes. Her character brings up real questions about what it means to belong, both to a family and a cultural identity, while navigating outside expectations. For me, her story highlights the importance of embracing who you are without losing sight of where you come from—a theme that’s central in African studies and resonates personally.

Raisin in the Sun feels like a film that has carved out its own timeless space. Even though it was made over sixty years ago, its messages about family, resilience, and racial inequality are as relevant now as they were then. It’s a story that reminds us of the sacrifices made by generations before us and inspires us to keep pushing forward. In the end, A Raisin in the Sun isn’t just a classic film; it’s a lesson in hope, courage, and the strength that comes from family and self-respect, and I believe its legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

[sociomi]

How Vacuum Double Glazing Functions

In vacuum twofold covering, the rut has all the air disposed of. Since power and sound can't cross a vacuum, this makes for a no doubt sensible window with extraordinary insurance properties.

Since a vacuum has essentially indistinguishable properties notwithstanding if it's .1mm or the boundlessness of room, the pit between the two sheets can be minute yet have equivalent power and sound-safeguarding properties.

Vacuum twofold covering offers different benefits stood separated from standard twofold covered windows. These consolidation better warm security and ruckus decline, as well as extra made looks and more conspicuous chance of compliancy in heritage projects.

Vacuum twofold covering diminishes heat debacle through windows considering the way that the vacuum between the sheets goes in all likelihood as a super-capable separator. Because of the vacuum weakness, the glass has a lower U-regard even than triple frosting, and that assembles it safeguards better.

Vacuum safeguarded covering other than diminishes how much commotion from outside, as sound can't cross a vacuum.

Partake in a more settled and all the more tranquil indoor environment Decline outside upheaval degradation for a typical individual fulfillment Update security and obsession by binding upheaval aggravations

A basic piece of the time, vacuum twofold covering is a sound hypothesis. It is routinely used pair with various kinds of security and can help with reducing energy bills for the property holder. In the relentless energy crisis (October 2022) vacuum covering can help contract holders with holding their bills down, especially when various updates are made to protect the property. Check out aluminium passive house window.

Vacuum twofold covering is more extreme than standard twofold covering, yet overwhelmingly most feel that it legitimizes the work for the sharp updates alone. It's similarly worth thinking about that the metallic edge seal is fundamentally strong regions for more a typical butyl seal on a twofold or triple covered unit. The standard insistence for a vacuum safeguarded unit is 15-years, stood separated from 10-years on other safeguarded unit, but the hypothesis that can't try not to be that the future will be far longer. This has a massive impact when you are studying finished life costs.

[qocsuing]

The Haenyeo: The Sea Women of Jeju Island

The Haenyeo: The Sea Women of Jeju Island

Jeju Island, a picturesque island off the southern coast of South Korea, is home to a unique and resilient group of women known as the haenyeo. These female divers have a centuries-old tradition of free-diving to harvest seafood from the ocean floor. This article explores the life and legacy of the haenyeo, highlighting their cultural significance and the challenges they face in the modern world.To get more news about 제주도콜걸 , you can visit our haianma.net official website.

The Tradition of Haenyeo

The haenyeo, which means "sea women" in Korean, have been diving for seafood for over 1,000 years. Traditionally, girls start training as haenyeo at the age of 11, beginning in shallow waters and gradually working their way to deeper dives1. After about seven years of training, they become full-fledged haenyeo. These women are known for their incredible breath-holding abilities, diving up to 20 meters deep and holding their breath for over three minutes1.

Daily Life of a Haenyeo

A haenyeo's day starts early, with dives lasting up to six hours during the summer months. They wear wetsuits, diving masks, fins, gloves, and chest weights to help them dive deeper1. Their catch includes abalone, conch, octopus, sea urchins, and various types of seaweed. Despite the physical demands and dangers such as jellyfish and sharks, the haenyeo continue their work with determination and skill1.

Cultural Significance

The haenyeo are not just divers; they are a symbol of Jeju Island's semi-matriarchal society. Historically, they have played a crucial role in the island's economy and culture1. The tradition of haenyeo diving has been passed down through generations, and their way of life is deeply intertwined with Jeju's identity.

Challenges and Preservation Efforts

In recent years, the number of haenyeo has dwindled, with many young people leaving the island for urban areas. Pollution and overfishing have also threatened their livelihood2. To preserve this unique tradition, the Jeju government and various organizations have implemented measures such as subsidizing wetsuits and providing medical insurance for haenyeo. In 2016, UNESCO recognized the haenyeo as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity2.

Conclusion

The haenyeo of Jeju Island are a testament to the strength, resilience, and cultural richness of the island's people. Their legacy continues to inspire and captivate people around the world, reminding us of the importance of preserving traditional ways of life in the face of modern challenges.