#three if we’re including adha

[teecupangel]

Submitted by @certainalpacawhispers:

So what if Desmond was sent back in Altair’s time but either it was planned (ISU bullshit) or it was a mistake (ISU bullshit), he was sent too early and Altair is like, a child. For some reason Desmond end up half raising or totally raising Altair. There is many way it can be maybe at first Umar is like “who tf is that grown unknown ass man staring at my child” but that unknown ass man seems to protect Altair ? I don’t know what relationship Desmond or Umar could have but Umar dies like in cannon cause Desmond can’t stop it (or maybe there’s another universe or he does) and now he just has a child ? 

Or maybe Desmond just kidnap Altair once he comes back in time ? 

I have no idea where this could begin or go, but I don’t think I have seen (except for one) any fic where Desmond come back in time and become some sort of father figure or mentor to Altair. The same could be said for any other AC protagonist. I would be curious to see what the hell would Desmond do ?

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Additions by teecup:

Desmond could start off as kinda like Umar’s strange informant and Umar knew that Desmond is hiding things but his information is always spot on so Umar never tried to press him for more. Altaïr meets him a few times when he accompanies his father during one of his ‘safer’ missions. Because there’s no way Desmond would go to Masyaf as it’s too risky to get Al Mualim’s attention and we need an excuse for Desmond and Altaïr to know one another.

With this, Altaïr would have an idea of how much Umar trusts Desmond, perhaps even think of Desmond as his uncle because of how nice and kind Desmond is to him. Maybe he’ll even spoil Altaïr every time he sees him and Umar just sighs and shakes his head softly.

It’s also during these times that Altaïr heard Desmond trying to warn Umar to not trust Al Mualim so blindly. To be careful and to-

Umar always stopped him. By the time he and Desmond met and developed whatever kind of relationship they had, Umar was already too loyal to Al Mualim that Desmond’s words fell on deaf ears.

But Altaïr remembered them.

So when Desmond appears inside his room the night of his father’s death, face pale as he kept apologizing for being too late, for not being there…

Altaïr embraces him tightly and begs him to stay.

And Desmond didn’t think.

Desmond took Altaïr away from Masyaf in the middle of the night without any real plans in mind.

Unorganized Notes:

You know what would be funny… if Adha was like Desmond’s daughter in this setup. And instead of an arranged marriage between her and Altaïr, she just nods and accepts that Altaïr is now her younger brother (“We’re the same age” “Shush. Listen to your big sister.”). She doesn’t even have to be Desmond’s biological daughter. She just happens to be a child that Desmond adopted and later found out was Altaïr’s Adha but, at that point, he’s already acting like the girl’s father to let her end up as what’s expected of her.

Altaïr would definitely have abandonment issues because he begged Umar to not leave him and that only transfers to Desmond as he grows older. As he grows up, he’ll also think that it’s Al Mualim’s fault that his father died and Desmond didn’t really stop him from thinking that.

Altaïr disappearance is considered one of the greatest mysteries of the Levantine Brotherhood. They’re still looking for him and Al Mualim is worried because he did care for Umar and Altaïr (even if his kind of care is a bit twisted by his desire for power and Altaïr’s gift of the Sight is definitely… a factor).

One of the greatest divergence with the canon on this setup is actually Ahmad Sofian’s survival. The night he tried to take his own life, he’s actually the one who noticed Altaïr’s disappearance. He believes that he cannot be forgiven until Altaïr returns to Masyaf so he’s actually the one who is trying to find Altaïr the most.

Of course, this only makes Abbas more or less jealous of Altaïr because it feels like Altaïr is more important to his father than his own son.

Altaïr doesn’t have any close friends in Masyaf so his disappearance doesn’t really affect anyone (other than Ahmad and Al Mualim) but everyone talks about it.

Altaïr grows up under Desmond’s tutelage which only makes him more deadly than he is as he is trained not just on his canon self’s style but Ezio’s and Ratonhnhaké:ton’s as well.

If Adha is included in this idea, they’re more like brother-and-sister with a bit of rivalry going on about who is their father’s top student. (It’s still Altaïr but Adha knows him enough to know which area to poke just to annoy him)

Altaïr’s arrogance and bluntness in this setting stems from Desmond’s weakness for him and his confidence in his own skills. It is also tempered by Desmond’s teachings and Altaïr doesn’t like to be scolded by him. His idea of the Creed is mostly what Desmond teaches it and he’s a model Assassin in almost everything… except…

Altaïr’s loyalty lies completely on Desmond, not to any Brotherhood or any Creed. This will definitely make him at odds with Malik when they clash but Altaïr doesn’t really care if his loyalty to Desmond is no different from Umar’s loyalty to Al Mualim. As far as Altaïr is concerned, the difference was his father chose the wrong master.

It is an ongoing headache for Desmond and he’s trying to get Altaïr to understand the importance of the Creed but Altaïr is a little shit who likes to use Desmond’s own explanation to get what he wants anyway.

Desmond’s technically a rogue Assassin and Altaïr is his acolyte. Although, by the time 1190 comes around, the two of them would be more like mentor and Master Assassin. His main mission is to keep the POEs away from both Templars and Assassins. Oh and to kick Al Mualim’s ass once he has enough evidence of his treachery.

They don’t acknowledge it but Desmond is supported by Alamut… mainly because they want Al Mualim kicked out as well but they can’t be seen as the ones who have done such a thing. A ‘third party’ like Desmond would be great, thanks.

Kadar still ends up heroworshipping Altaïr. Them’s the rules.

[starlightervarda]

Some Religious Facts and Terminology

1) To start—Allah is the same entity as God. It’s just the Arabic word for God. Literally, to break it down its the words al-ilah—The God. The term predates Islam.

Christians in the Middle East (and Mizrahi Jews) also say Allah. The terms God the Father/God the Son translate to Allah al-Ab/Allah al-Ibn. Both religions also use the shared term Rabina—‘Our God’. If your characters are speaking the same language just use ‘God’.

A Muslim wouldn’t say the phrase ‘Your God’ to a Christian unless they’re mocking them for worshiping Jesus as God himself, or believing in the concept of the Trinity. This is asshole behavior. It would not be used in conversation between friends.

Shared phrases include:

God Be With You (Rabina ma’ak) / God Be With Us (Rabina ma’ana), O God (Ya Rab!) and God Willing (Inshallah) denote hope or assurance. Sometimes can be said in mild sarcasm or disbelief like “Sure it will,” or “We’ll see,”.

If someone sneezes you say May God Protect You (Yarhamukallah) i.e. Bless You. May God Save/Preserve You (Rabina Yekhaleik/Yehfezak) is a step above ‘Thank you’ or ‘Be Safe’.

On God’s Life (Wehyat Rabina) and I swear to God (Wallahi) are when you yourself swear or you ask someone to swear on / ensure something. They’re sometimes said with a heavy dose of sarcasm, like if someone tells you the Earth is flat and you’re like ‘Swear to God?��

Praise God (Alhamdulillah/Ahmedak Ya Rab) are expressions of relief, like ‘Thank God!’. God Wills It (Mashallah) is also used for relief, and in response to both good and baffling news (with sarcasm), and to ward off the Evil Eye/envy/jinn from ruining said-good news.

Ask God’s Forgiveness (Estaghfarallah) is an expression of exasperation/disbelief (like if someone keeps arguing the Earth is flat), tends to be accompanied by an eye-roll. It’s like ‘For the Love of God!’

Saying ‘Allah!’ as a positive interjection, like when something good happens or when you see something wondrous or beautiful, is also common. It’s where the Spanish word Olé! comes from.

Something specifically Muslim would be like using Weh Nabi (For the Prophet’s sake) when asking for something, which is impolite to say to a Christian since it holds no significance for them.

2) People seem to be under the impression that the faiths are inherently segregated or disconnected. All three People of the Book (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) share a lot more than you’d think, namely most stories and figures from the Torah/Old Testament. One of the biggest Islamic holidays, the Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) - also known as the Big Feast (Eid al-Kabir) is based on the story of the Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice is his son, then being told by God that he can now substitute a sheep for him. Sheep-meat dishes galore.

Other figures like Adam, Abraham (Ibrahim), Solomon (Suleiman), Joseph (Youssef), Noah (Nūh) and David (Dawoud) are important to all three, some more than others and other figures take a higher priority, like Ismael over Isaac. They factor into things like Muslims naming their daughters Sarah and Hagar, but not Rachel and Rebecca.

Look, it’s the same difference as Jews and Christians having the same god with the central difference being Jews not viewing Jesus as the Messiah. Muslims agree Jesus is the Messiah born of a virgin, just not the Son of God/God, or that he died on a cross. They even agree he’ll be back on Judgment Day to fight the Antichrist. 

3) While we’re at it, Muslims revere Jesus and Mary, they literally refer to them as Our Master Jesus (Sayedna Issa) / the Messiah and The Lady Mary (A-Sayeda Mariam) -- in the Quran, Mary has her own chapter and Jesus’ name shows up a lot. They revere them, and to a lesser extent, John the Baptist, and even John’s father Zachariah, as prophets of God. They name their children Issa, Mariam, Yahya and Zakaria for them.

4) In more secular countries with a Christian population, like in Egypt and the Levant, there are Muslims who join in celebrations of Christmas and Easter. They don’t do it in the religious sense as you would in a church, and it’s not a priority of theirs, but it’s in a general cultural ‘woo-hoo holiday!’ way. Plenty do, in fact, get trees, hang wreaths, lights, and images of Santa Claus/Papa Noël, in December.

In April, people will buy brioches and dye eggs for Easter, not because they believe Jesus died and was resurrected, but because it’s fun. They’ll even send their kids to schools run by nuns called Sacré-Cœur (Sacred Heart) and Mére de Dieu (Mother of God)! My great-grandma was in a nursing home run by nuns.

On the other side, nothing stops Christians from joining in the spirit for celebrations either of the Feasts, and them not fasting during Ramadan does not stop them from coming over to break fast with Muslim friends. They will wish each other Merry Christmas (Eid Milad Saïd) and Happy Feast (Eid Saïd), they'll even get each other gifts.

Not practicing doesn’t stop you from partaking, just like how many irreligious people celebrate the secular Santa-based Christmas. There is a lot of general overlap. I literally went to a concert in my country last winter where many in an interfaith crowd came to watch a choir sing Christmas songs. Hell, my grandma read an Arabic translation of The Divine Comedy when she was in university.

Stuff like this is not uncommon unless you’re in a country with almost no minority faiths, or are under strict religious laws. 

If anything, there have been pushes to join in interfaith celebrations and depicting characters on TV doing so to show unity and fight the rise in religious fanaticism and evangelical Islam that’s been happening the past couple of decades, which has raised the discrimination against and persecution of Christians and minority sects.

5) People who are against stuff like this, or get real defensive or offensive when offered or invited, who call for segregation of faiths, or who avoid interacting with Christians or anything they do, are fundamentalists/evangelicals/extremists. Just like you would with your own fundies, do not validate their behavior by displaying it on sympathetic characters, these are people who even other (moderate) Muslims would avoid. Fundie views are lethal, it encourages people to shoot up and bomb churches.

Religion is never an excuse to be an asshole. There’s a big difference between not wanting to eat a pork-based dish to keep halal, and refusing to shake hands with a woman/a Christian.

So, in any depiction of Joe, practicing, agnostic, somewhere-in-the-middle, just cultural rather than religious, etc. I beg of you don’t have him making fundie dick-moves like saying ‘Your God’ or rude things about Jesus, or refusing to help decorate a Christmas tree or wear a Santa hat. Canon!Joe was a Fatimid, they were known for being accepting/tolerant of minorities under their reign, he would not behave this way.

[whoisbxcky]

Safe: Pt. 2

request: Can I request a part 2 to Safe? It was so amazing great job!!

pairing: Peter Parker x Reader (!!reader and peter both 16 in this fic!!)

word count: 1900

warnings: angst, implied ptsd/ flashbacks, fluuuuuuff 

author’s note: Aaaaand we’re back with a second act to ‘Safe’. A lil more angst, a lil more fluff. We take a trip to Morocco. All the good stuff. 

Thank you very much to anon for this request, it’s always rad to know someone enjoyed my story enough to ask for more of it! ~ Toria <3

PART 1 | PART 2

“How many, dear?” The kindly old women at the market stall called out to you, her lopsided smile reaching you from behind the box of fruit she was currently lugging around.

You glanced up at her, taking your longing stare away from the impossibly succulent oranges you had been studiously inspecting just a moment before. You offered her a warm smile back, pulling your scarf firmly around your head as you cleared your throat.

“Just the one, if it’s no trouble, Ayat.” You replied in a sing song voice, unable to keep the smile from your expression.

The wise, old Moroccan matriarch had been gifting you fruit from her market stall in exchange for English lessons since you’d arrived in the country a month and a half ago. Apparently, she had a grandson living in England, and was determined to surprise him with her newly learned third language when he returned home for Eid al-Adha.

She gave you a knowing smile in turn, and handed you the fruit, clasping your hand in hers, her eyes full of fondness.

“Shukran, Ayat.” You whispered to her, giving her weathered palm a gentle squeeze.

“Barak llāhū fīk, Y/N.” She whispered back, reaching forward to pat your cheek affectionately, before the two of you parted ways for the day.

You limped through the bustling souk, the sounds of fervent chatter and the aroma of rich spices and freshly cooked meat overtaking your senses. You could not help but grin, your heart practically soaring, as you considered the stark contrast between Marrakech and the battlefield you’d found yourself almost dying on months earlier.

It had been around twelve weeks since Steve and Tony had faced off, and you’d found yourself at the business end of a collision with an eighteen-wheeler, snapping your femur amongst myriad injuries in the process. True to his word, Tony had fixed you up as much as you had allowed him to, and you had been back on your feet in mere days. However, once you were able to move around unassisted, you had fled the compound without a word, leaving only a note for Peter in your wake.

Peter.

You gave a heartfelt sigh, digging into your orange as you dipped and weaved through the crowded side streets, making your way toward the ocean-side cliffs at the edge of town.

It had hurt you tremendously to leave Peter without saying goodbye, and you had almost considered staying when the image of his boyish grin, and those gleaming, oak brown eyes had materialised in your mind.

But you knew you couldn’t stay. Not after… Well. Everything.

You stifled a gasp as you came upon the desolate cliff tops, overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Atlantic. It didn’t seem to matter how many times you came here for sunset; the view never lost its magnificence in your mind.

You stood, allowing the gentle evening breeze to tousle your hair as you pulled your headscarf down, acutely aware that as usual, no one would be around to pay mind at this hour.

You had just closed your eyes, allowing the sound of crashing waves and the scent of salt and citrus to flood your senses, when a small voice from behind you caused you to turn so sharply on your heel, you almost fell.

“Y/N…”

Scanning the area behind you, your gaze fell upon the face of one who should not… Who could not be there. You let out a breath of surprise, the figure’s name falling from your lips like a rock in a tranquil pond.

“Peter…”

For a moment, the two of you simply stood, neither one of you making a move to speak, or approach the other. You weren’t entirely sure you weren’t hallucinating, not until Peter finally broke free of his trance, taking a careful step towards you, hands up in mock surrender.

“Y/N… It’s really you…” He murmured, eyes shimmering with emotion.

You heart stuttered in your chest, and you felt your head spin as you tried to comprehend the situation you had found yourself in. You had been so careful to keep any and all trace of your whereabouts a secret, but in reality, you had known the second you left that the Avengers would track you down eventually.

What you hadn’t anticipated, was that Peter might ignore your letter, which very specifically instructed him not to come looking for you.

That realisation turned your confused joy into mild rage, and you narrowed your eyes at the boy in front of you, grimacing,

“What the hell are you doing here?” Your snapped.

Peter swallowed hard, his gaze dropping to the floor as his shoulders slumped in turn.

“I… I had to know if you were alright…” He mumbled, a faint pink hue on his cheeks.

“I assume you got my letter. Which very specifically told you to stay away.” You snarled, crossing your arms over your chest defensively.

Peter shot you an affronted glare, taking another step toward you, and you flinched. This was exactly what you’d hoped to avoid.

“I just want to understand… Y/N… I want to know, why did you leave?” Peter questioned, his eyes flickering with resolve. You knew that look; it was a silent promise that you would not have peace until Peter Parker had the answers he desired.

With a sigh of defeat, you ran a trembling hand through your hair, unable to meet Peter’s gaze all of a sudden.

“I… I couldn’t stay.” Your voice was a mere whisper, as you found yourself confessing the thoughts that had haunted you for three long months out loud for the first time. “After… After the battle. I realised… I’m not cut out to be an Avenger.”

You felt the familiar sting of tears nipping at the backs of your eyes and found yourself blinking furiously to keep them at bay. When you chanced a look at Peter, he was staring at you disbelievingly, his eyes narrowed, mouth gaping ever so slightly.

“Y/N… What the hell are you talking about?” He demanded, taking yet another step towards you.

“I let myself get hurt, almost killed, during that battle. Because I was too busy worrying about everyone around me, and not focusing on my own safety.” You let out a shaky breath, hugging your arms around yourself tighter as you spoke. “I realised afterwards… I’d been relying on others to have my back… Keep me safe… And it made me weak.”

You stifled a sob, fighting off the memory of you waking up to find yourself battered… bruised… bloodied… Practically on deaths door. It made you shudder to even consider.

“So… I promised myself I’d never be weak again. I’d never let my own safety, my own life, be an after thought again. And the best way to do that is if I just… Work alone…” You trailed off, your voice cracking with emotion as the thoughts and feelings you’d buried so deep from that day came rushing back to you.

You heard Peter sigh and glanced up at him just in time to see him almost entirely close the distance between the two of you. Fighting the urge to run into his arms after so long without seeing him, you took a tentative step back, biting your bottom lip hard enough to draw blood as you shook your head.

“Y/N, let’s get one thing straight here. You are not weak. In fact, you’re the strongest person I know. Avengers included.” Peter offered you a smirk, and you struggled to stifle a giggle.

Damn him. Even at a time like this, he could turn your mood around with one sentence.

“You took the heaviest hit I’ve ever seen, and you survived it.” He continued. “But putting your life on the line to help your friends… Well… That’s what being a hero is all about.”

You let out a trembling breath, composing yourself once more.

“Well, I don’t think I’m made for the hero life, Pete.” You whispered, staring at the ground woefully.

“So… even if being an Avenger isn’t what you want anymore… How about you come back to New York with me anyway? Come home? Everyone misses you a bunch and Mr Stark has been playing Cold Play on repeat ever since you left and Mr Rhodey-“

“I can get by on my own, Pete.” You sighed, cutting off his rambling as your sorrowful eyes met his own.

“I know you can. I know. But… Thing is…” Peter scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, flashing you a boyish grin. “You don’t have to, Y/N.”

You stared at him for a moment, the confusion in your eyes betraying your less-than-impressed expression. Peter took a tentative step forward, hand outstretched to take your own, and despite yourself, you found your own hand reaching out in turn.

“You don’t have to be alone ever again, Y/N, because… Well… You have me.” Peter murmured, clasping your palms together and gently running the pad of his thumb across your knuckles, a small gesture that send a shockwave of warmth and familiarity through you.

You let out an involuntary gasp, your wide eyes finding Peter’s, which were filled entirely with the reflection of the setting sun, twinkling back at you like pools of amber. You found yourself lost in their warmth momentarily, your feet gravitating closer to Peter as if under a spell.

As you approached, Peter’s other hand reached out gingerly to clasp your waist, holding you steadily against his surprisingly muscular form. You dully wondered if he had always felt this sturdy to you. If you’d always felt the tension leave your body under his sincere gaze. If being close to him had always felt like… Like home.

Peter allowed his forehead to drop against yours, letting out a gentle sigh as the hand that had gripped your own skimmed up the side of your arm, coming to rest against your cheek. Slender fingers brushed the stray hairs there, gently tucking them behind your ear as his soulful eyes searched your own.

“I promise you, Y/N.” Peter whispered to you, a soft smile on his lips. “No matter what happens, whether you come back to the Avengers or not. I promise you; I’ll always be around to keep you safe.”

You were unaware of the dewy droplets spilling over your lashes, until the abrasive pad of Peter’s thumb glanced over your cheek, brushing them away. You let out a small breath, unable to keep your face from cracking into a joyous smile that was radiant enough to make the suns evening rays jealous, in Peter’s mind.

Words escaped you as your body was entirely overcome with emotion, and you found yourself pressing forward as your eyelids fluttered shut, your lips delicately pressing against Peter’s.

The young Avenger tensed for a moment, caught somewhat by surprise, before he clutched your cheek firmly in his hand, crushing your body against his with the arm that snaked around your waist.

It was a stark contrast to the gentleness with which he kissed you back. Your breaths mingling as soft lips glanced off each other, almost chaste in their tentativeness.

The two of you stayed in each other’s arms for some time, silently watching the sun disappear below the horizon. You knew you had a big decision to make come morning light, but for now at least, you were perfectly content to revel in the comfort of Peter’s embrace, the place you knew you would always be safe.

[classyfoxdestiny]

Plan to beat ‘pingdemic’ branded shambles as firms report frustration trying to register staff #ٹاپسٹوریز

New Post has been published on https://mediabox.pk/plan-to-beat-pingdemic-branded-shambles-as-firms-report-frustration-trying-to-register-staff/

Plan to beat ‘pingdemic’ branded shambles as firms report frustration trying to register staff

A government scheme to beat the “pingdemic” by exempting essential workers from self-isolation has been denounced as a shambles, as small businesses warned they were facing frustration and delays in trying to sign up staff.

Ministers last week announced 800 daily testing sites would be set up around the country to allow double-vaccinated workers in the food industry and emergency services to show they are safe to work, and a further 1,200 were announced on Monday as the scheme was expanded to include jobs including binmen, prison warders and energy workers.

Some 500 are supposed to be operational by the end of this week, with only a few dozen thought to be up and running now.

But representatives of small businesses said they had struggled to find lists of venues for workers to take PCR tests, and the Department of Health was unable to provide The Independent with a figure for how many have so far been set up.

The national chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, Mike Cherry, said that when the daily testing scheme was announced last week, many firms hoped it would end problems caused by staff being identified as contacts of Covid-positive people and told to stay home ahead of the 16 August date for all double-jabbed adults to be exempted from self-isolation.

But he said they had been “disappointed” by the bureaucratic burden of applying for exemptions and the limited number of workers who appear to be eligible. And he warned that “countless” businesses could be put at risk as a result.

“The increasing list of those allowed to take a PCR test after being pinged does not include the vast majority of small business workplaces,” said Mr Cherry. “Those that hope that they do fall into scope are finding out that they do not.

“For a small business without a big HR or legal department, that does not have an account manager within a government department like a large business does to ask and manage the process, the exemption application process is demanding and hard to navigate.

“A fundamental question is, how are we defining ‘essential’? One of the many lessons of the pandemic has been how interconnected our economy is – it’s no good getting food and essential supplies to remote convenience stores if those stores are shut because all the staff have been pinged and they’re not classed as essential.

“Unless these issues are sorted, and sorted rapidly, we risk undoing provisional progress towards recovery, putting the ‘staycation summer’ at risk, while endangering countless businesses.”

Road Haulage Association managing director for policy and public affairs Rod McKenzie told The Independent: “It’s a shambles.

“What hauliers are telling us is that it is too complicated, it’s too hard to understand what you have to do and work out whether you are exempt or not.”

Mr McKenzie said government had been “secretive” about the number of testing sites which have been set up and where they can be found.

With just three weeks to go until the 16 August date for lifting the threat of self-isolation for the double-vaccinated, he said many truckers viewed the time and effort required to register for exemption as more trouble than it was worth.

“Our members find it confusing and bureaucratic and a lot of them are just not bothering to apply,” he said. “These guys were essential workers before, they are essential now. We’re seeing empty shelves in supermarkets which are used to two or three deliveries a day and are maybe only getting one. If they are double-jabbed and they’re testing negative, why not let them work?”

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6 July 2021

A couple are hit by a wave as they walk along the promenade in Dover, Kent, during strong winds

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5 July 2021

Alexander Zverev playing against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the fourth round of the Gentlemen’s Singles on Court 1 on day seven of Wimbledon at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

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4 July 2021

Aaron Carty and the Beyoncé Experience perform on stage during UK Black Pride at The Roundhouse in London

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3 July 2021

England’s Jordan Henderson celebrates after scoring his first international goal, his side’s fourth against Ukraine during the Euro 2020 quarter final match at the Olympic stadium in Rome

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2 July 2021

Dan Evans serves against Sebastian Korda during their men’s singles third round match at Wimbledon

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1 July 2021

Prince William, left and Prince Harry unveil a statue they commissioned of their mother Princess Diana, on what would have been her 60th birthday, in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace, London

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30 June 2021

Dancers from the Billingham Festival and Balbir Singh Dance Company, during a preview for the The Two Fridas, UK Summer tour, presented by Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance in collaboration with Balbir Singh Dance Company, inspired by the life and times of female artists Frida Kahlo and Amrita Sher-Gil , which opens on July 10 at Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens in Durham

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29 June 2021

A boy kicks a soccer ball in front of the balconies and landings adorned with predominantly England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

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28 June 2021

Emergency services attend a fire nearby the Elephant & Castle Rail Station in London

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27 June 2021

People walk along Regent Street in central London during a #FreedomToDance march organised by Save Our Scene, in protest against the government’s perceived disregard for the live music industry throughout the coronavirus pandemic

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26 June 2021

A pair of marchers in a Trans Pride rally share a smile in Soho

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25 June 2021

Tim Duckworth during the Long Jump in the decathlon during day one of the Muller British Athletics Championships at Manchester Regional Arena

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24 June 2021

A member of staff poses with the work ‘The Death of Cash’ by XCopy at the ‘CryptOGs: The Pioneers of NFT Art’ auction at Bonhams auction house in London

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23 June 2021

Bank of England Chief Cashier Sarah John displays the new 50-pound banknote at Daunt Books in London

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22 June 2021

Actor Isaac Hampstead Wright sits on the newly unveiled Game of Throne’s “Iron Throne” statue, in Leicester Square, in London, Tuesday, June 22, 2021. The statue is the tenth to join the trail and commemorates 10 years since the TV show first aired, as well as in anticipation for HBO’s release of House of the Dragon set to be released in 2022

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21 June 2021

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon receives her second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine

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20 June 2021

Joyce Paton, from Peterhead, on one of the remaining snow patches on Meall a’Bhuiridh in Glencoe during the Midsummer Ski. The event, organised by the Glencoe Mountain Resort, is held every year on the weekend closest to the Summer Solstice

PA

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19 June 2021

England appeal LBW during day four of their Women’s International Test match against India at the Bristol County Ground

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18 June 2021

Scotland fans let off flares in Leicester Square after Scotland’s Euro 2020 match against England ended in a 0-0 draw

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17 June 2021

Members of the Tootsie Rollers jazz band pose on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet

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16 June 2021

A woman and child examine life-size sculptures of a herd of Asian elephants set up by the Elephant Family and The Real Elephant Collective to help educate the public on the elephants and the ways in which humans can better protect the planets biodiversity, in Green Park, central London

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15 June 2021

Hydrotherapists with Dixie, a seven-year-old Dachshund who is being treated for back problems common with the breed, in the hydrotherapy pool during a facility at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s in Battersea, London, to view their new hydrotherapy centre

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14 June 2021

Scotland’s David Marshall in the net after Czech Republic’s Patrik Schick scored their second goal at Hampden Park

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13 June 2021

Raheem Sterling celebrates with Harry Kane after scoring England’s first goal of the Euro 2021 tournament in a match against Croatia at Wembley

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12 June 2021

Oxfam campaigners wearing costumes depicting G7 leaders pose for photographers on Swanpool Beach near Falmouth, Cornwall

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11 June 2021

Members of the Vaxinol team, who are commercial, industrial and residential cleaners specialising in disinfection and decontamination, use electrostatic spray systems to deep clean the Only Fools Bar in Liverpool

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10 June 2021

A woman walks her dogs as the incoming tide begins to wash away the heads of G7 leaders drawn in the sand by activists on the beach at Newquay, Cornwall

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9 June 2021

Adam Chamberlain, 45, general manager of Big Tree pub in Sheffield, has put up over 500 flags, taking 36 hours, in preparation for Euro 2020, which kicks off this weekend

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8 June 2021

REUTERS

Food wholesalers Birchall Foodservice of Burnley, which supplies care homes, hospices, hospitals, schools and colleges as well as restaurant, said they were “completely in the dark” about how to access teh exemption scheme for their staff.

HR manager Krissy Fremont told Radio 4’s Today: “There’s still a total lack of detail. We were told yesterday the government would directly contact wholesale food service providers that were going to be on the list, and we haven’t been contacted.

“We were given an email to contact and ask if we were on the list. I did that yesterday and got an automated response saying ‘We’re receiving a high volume of emails, we’ll get back to you’. So we’re as much in the dark as we were.”

Ms Fremont said that she and other office workers had been out in vans making deliveries to ensure that customers did not miss out because drivers were absent after being pinged.

“Our care sector can be anything from a care home to a hospice or some levels of hospital, so these are vulnerable people who need their food deliveries,” she said. “We support holiday hunger campaigns for children receiving free school meals and without our deliveries those children aren’t going to get those meals.”

The Department for Transport did not respond to The Independent’s request for a comment on suggestions the scheme was a “shambles” and there was no immediate reply to requests for details of the number and location of testing sites.

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[phgq]

Moro learners continue to learn Islamic values amid pandemic

#PHnews: Moro learners continue to learn Islamic values amid pandemic

KORONADAL CITY – If not for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, the Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) program of the Koronadal National Comprehensive High School (KNCHS) here would have taken off by now.

The promising program faced serious challenges as concerns persisted with the continuing spread of the virus, which already postponed the opening of classes twice and caused the scrapping of the regular face-to-face sessions.

Implementers initially contemplated on temporarily shelving the initiative but eventually reconsidered mainly due to its significant impact.

“At the end of the day, we felt the need to sustain it to have continuity and ensure that our (Muslim) learners will have proper guidance in the process,” said Sonny Boy Mando, the designated facilitator and lead ALIVE teacher of KNCHS, in an interview Monday,

ALIVE, which was piloted at the school last year by the Department of Education (DepEd) city division, is a flagship program implemented in public schools that aims to provide additional subjects on Arabic language and Islamic values in the regular basic education curriculum.

A component of the Madrasah Education Program (MEP), it seeks to “provide Muslim learners with appropriate and relevant educational opportunities while recognizing their cultural contexts and unique purposes for participating in the program offerings”.

For school year 2019-2020, at least 95 Grade 7 Moro or Muslim learners of KNCHS took part in the pioneering ALIVE classes.

The school then had a total of 7,843 learners but only 399 were Muslims, mostly Maguindanaoans from parts of the city and the neighboring Lutayan town in Sultan Kudarat province.

For two hours every week, the Muslim learners study Islamic values in several batches through sessions handled by two trained ALIVE teachers, said KNCHS assistant principal for academics Latreia Estabillo.

She said an Ustadz or Islamic teacher assigned by DepEd-Region 12 holds enrichment sessions with the learners twice a month.

The program’s implementation is regularly monitored and assessed by the city division through its special program unit.

During its first year of implementation, the program’s impact among Muslim learners as well as their Christian peers was immediately seen.

A report from implementers said the program has made the learners more aware of their culture and traditions, and prouder of their identity.

More female Muslim learners were reportedly encouraged to wear hijabs and assimilate with the Christian majority at the school.

“The more that they become visible and with other learners seeing the support of the school administration, they felt more accepted and gained respect as well,” it said.

Mando, who is a Maguindanaoan, said the rollout of the program complemented as well with the initiatives of the school’s Muslim Students Organization (MSO).

MSO, which he helped establish three years ago, provided a venue for Muslim leaners to unite and practice their beliefs as others at the school.

Through the ALIVE program and MSO, he said the school was able to showcase their beliefs, culture and traditions, and made the majority Christian learners more aware and respect them.

These include the observance of fasting and other important events like Eid al-Adha or “Festival of Sacrifice” and Eid al-Fitr or the end of the month-long Ramadan.

“Little by little, the discrimination of Muslim leaners, which was previously a big problem, was addressed,” Mando said in an interview.

Zainudin Mantawil, who helped organize the MSO, said it is important for the school to sustain these programs.

He said the problems faced by minority Muslim learners, especially discrimination, can be addressed through proper values education.

“This goes both ways, we have to inculcate proper values, not only to the Muslims but the learners as well,” he said.

“Everyone should understand each other’s culture and beliefs – Christians, Muslims, and indigenous peoples. Once we achieve that, there will be no more discrimination,” Mantawil said.

To sustain the ALIVE program, Mando said they decided to offer it via the modular printed mode to its first batch of learners last year who are now in Grade 8.

He said its expansion to the enrolled Grade 7 learners this school year has been deferred due to the lack of time to get the consent of the parents and the limited movements due to the continuing spread of Covid-19 in the area.

“We’re already finalizing the modules and hopefully we can start with our sessions later this month,” he said.

He said they have adopted various measures to ensure that the health protocols will be strictly complied with during the distribution and retrieval of the modules.

Mando said he has made himself available to address the concerns of learners and their parents regarding the modules.

“There will be a lot of challenges along the way but we’re confident that these will be addressed properly. We are ready to make the necessary adjustments and sacrifices to ensure that this program will continue amid this crisis,” he said. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Moro learners continue to learn Islamic values amid pandemic." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117550 (accessed October 06, 2020 at 04:24AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Moro learners continue to learn Islamic values amid pandemic." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117550 (archived).

[omgstupendousbouquetbasement]

French Charities Rescue 81 More Migrants off Libya

Two French charities pulled another 81 migrants from the waters off Libya Sunday, bringing the number of those it rescued at sea since Friday to 211.

Doctors Without Borders and SOS Mediterranean jointly operate the Norwegian-flagged rescue ship Ocean Viking.

Most of those it picked up over the past three days are Sudanese men, including the 81 rescued from a flimsy rubber dinghy Sunday. Witnesses on the Ocean Viking say the men on the raft waved and cheered when they saw the ship approaching.

"We're the only ones in the area, the Libyan coast guard doesn't respond," SOS Mediterranean rescue coordinator Nicholas Romaniuk told an AFP reporter.

He said he expects more migrants leaving Libya over the next few days because of good weather and the Eid al-Adha holiday reducing the number of police patrolling the beaches.

Meanwhile, a Spanish aid group, Open Arms, said it has 160 migrants aboard its rescue ship, including three who need "specialized medical attention."

Open Arms founder Oscar Camps made another appeal Sunday to European governments for help, especially Italy, which is the closest safe port.

"Tenth day on board on a scorching Sunday in August. We have 160 reasons to carry on, 160 human beings who have the right to disembark at a safe port. Shame on you, Europe," Camps tweeted.

Italy's far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Italy is not "legally bound nor disposed to take in clandestine unidentified migrants."

Italy has complained it has done more than its share of allowing migrants to dock and wants other EU nations to do more to help.

Thousands of migrants from Africa try to reach EU shores from Libya every year. Those who are not rescued by charities are either left on unsafe boats to or picked up by the Libyan coast guard and returned to Libya, where they are housed in detention facilities.

Some of those facilities have been caught in the fighting between rival governments in Libya. A missile slammed into one detention building outside Tripoli in July, killing 53.

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[amieravenson]

Magickal Month- August 2019

Magickal Month- August 2019 In August our attention pivots from the work of tending our ‘crops’ (literal or metaphorical) to beginning the harvest. We’re seeing the rewards of all the work we’ve put in over the Spring and Summer, and it feels amazing. We’re also now on the downside of Summer, and though Autumn is still 6 weeks away, we can see the light at the end of the very hot, very bright tunnel, and the harvest aesthetic is creeping into everything. I love it. August was originally the 6th month of the year, and was moved to the 8th month when January and February were added to the Julian calendar. In our house, it’s known as DragonCon preparation month. The water lilies are still blooming now and again, and our morning glories are going strong. The apples and Rose of Sharon are done, and we’re starting to eye the basil to see when we should harvest it for pesto. I also spotted some Joe Pye weed, which is always exciting. We’ve been feeding the neighborhood stray cats, and we’ve had a raccoon and an opossum visitor as a result. Otherwise, we haven’t been seeing nearly as many frogs, snakes, or other critters, and I think the kitties have been eating them or scaring them away. Birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, spinel Lunations: August 15- Full Moon in Aquarius, 8:29am EDT August 30- New Moon in Virgo, 6:37am EDT Astronomy: August 1- Mercury goes direct August 4- Southern Iota Aquariids meteor shower begins August 11- Jupiter goes direct August 12- Uranus goes retrograde August 13- Perseids meteor shower begins August 18- Kappa Cygnids meteor shower begins Celtic Tree Month: Holly (July 8- August 4): Protection, enjoying and celebrating success (nearing first harvest), renewal/restoring your direction, rebalancing your energy, moving towards your purpose, energizing. Truth, unconditional love, sacrifice, reincarnation, protection, luck, dream magick, male counterpart to feminine ivy. Hazel (August 5- September 1): Wisdom, intuition, studying ancient knowledge, fertility and good luck, divination (including hazel rods used for divining for water), poetry and science, playfulness and enchantment, healing arts. Holidays (non-Pagan): August 7: Purple Heart Day August 11: Tisha B’Av (Jewish) August 12: Eid al-Adha (Muslim) August 14: Raksha Bandhan (Hindu) August 15: Assumption of Mary (Christian) August 21: Senior Citizens Day August 23: Janmashtami (Hindu) August 26: Women’s Equality Day Holidays (Pagan): August 1: Lammas August 1: Metageitnion Noumenion- Greek festival honoring all the gods August 4: Feast of Aphrodite and Eros August 6: Festival of Artemis August 7: Gaia Consciousness Day August 12: Festival of Athena and Zeus August 19: Vinalia- Roman festival of thanksgiving for the grape harvest August 23: Feast of the Furies August 25: Festival of Ops- Roman Goddess of the harvest August 30: Boedromion Noumenia- Greek festival honoring all the gods Themes for the month: Harvesting grains and herbs, drying herbs, days are getting slightly shorter, sense of impending Autumn, canning and preserving food for the Winter, back to school, wrapping up Summer activities and projects General activities for the month: Cooking with and enjoying Summer veggies, grilling, getting in those last Summer vacations, cleaning up the plants that are already spent for Winter, planning Autumn projects, perusing craft stores for Halloween/Samhain decor Herbs I’m using: I have just enough Rose of Sharon blooms to make one last batch of iced tea, basil, garlic chives from the CSA farm Stones I’m using: Rhodonite for self-love and heart healing, polychrome jasper for rebirth and earth energy, carnelian for energy and motivation Goddess of the Month: I’m working with Athena and Minerva as I’m trying to wrap up and FINALLY publish some projects that I started a while ago. I want them done before DragonCon, and I need her inspiration and wisdom to help me learn what I need to do to format and design the covers, etc.

August 2019 reading 3 card reading: Astrologically, everyone seems to agree that the eclipse at the end of July marks a transition into a better life in August. Let’s see if the cards agree! First, we see The Ace of Swords reversed. So this is a time when we need to stop thinking, overthinking, and even obsessing. We’ve done all the thinking that needs to be done, and now it’s time to actually take real, concrete action. We aren’t at the beginning phases of a project anymore, we’re fully in it, and we need to see it through to completion. Next, we have the Two of Cups. So we’re going to have a helpful, happy partnership that helps us see this project done. That can be a lover or spouse that supports us through the process, or it can be a business partner that we really jive with. This can even be a friend that we become partners with in our business or other undertakings. Either way, we have lots of support, peace, and harmony this month. And finally, we see the Three of Discs. This is a card of recognition for a job well done, and it comes at a great time! Our work is really coming together and we’re showing some real skill. People are noticing, and we’re setting ourselves up for success. Good news! This is a great card for this time of year, as it shows a harvest of our hard work. Our special guidance card is Sige. So we’re being told that we still need to carve out quiet time for ourselves, no matter how much our plans are coming together right now. This can be self-care and solitude, or this can even mean carving out time for yourself to finish what you’ve started. Sometimes solitude is about taking time away from activity, and sometimes it’s about creating more personal time for activity. It’s your choice how you would like to read this card! In Harvest By Sophie Jewett Mown meadows skirt the standing wheat; I linger, for the hay is sweet, New-cut and curing in the sun. Like furrows, straight, the windrows run, Fallen, gallant ranks that tossed and bent When, yesterday, the west wind went A-rioting through grass and grain. To-day no least breath stirs the plain; Only the hot air, quivering, yields Illusive motion to the fields Where not the slenderest tassel swings. Across the wheat flash sky-blue wings; A goldfinch dangles from a tall, Full-flowered yellow mullein; all The world seems turning blue and gold. Unstartled, since, even from of old, Beauty has brought keen sense of her, I feel the withering grasses stir; Along the edges of the wheat, I hear the rustle of her feet: And yet I know the whole sea lies, And half the earth, between our eyes. My personal tides: We’re FINALLY done with all the housing insecurity, financial insecurity, moving, feeling pulled in two directions, and worrying about all the things we need to do to start our new life. We’re in the new house, done with the old house, and ready to launch a new life. So I’m all about cleansing, purifying, and being completely reborn. I’ve gotten a haircut, done all the shaving I put off because I was too busy, and I’ve been actually unpacking some boxes with a vision of getting our house in order! My personal goals: My main goal for August is to get the book I just finished formatted and published. I also need to revise the Tarot 101 class that I’ll probably be giving at DragonCon again, and beef up the security on my website so that people can order readings or ebooks there. I also need to find a rescue organization who will help me rescue these cats. Read the full article

[topfygad]

10 things to look forward to in Dubai this August

By Alice Holtham

Live gigs, a Disney movie marathon, a new ladies’ night inside the Burj Khalifa and the first What’s On Lock In is here…

As we head into August we’re looking ahead to some of the best things to do in the city this month. From live performances from S Club 3, Westlife and The 1975 to new bars, new ladies’ nights and of course the first ever What’s On Lock In, we’re bringing you a guide to the best events happening this month.

Here’s 10 things to look forward to in Dubai this August. 

August 2: Enjoy a value birthday brunch at a popular party spot

To celebrate their second birthday, Mr Miyagi’s at Media One are offering an array of top deals to keep you partying all day long on Friday August 2. As well as offering 50 per cent off everything on their food and drink menu from 12pm to 9pm, they’ll be running three servings of their Wok and Roll party brunch from 12pm to 3pm, 4pm to 7pm and 8pm to 11pm for a bargain Dhs199 – including bubbles. Of course, you can expect all the usual crowd karaoke, cabaret shows and a live DJ to have you hitting the dancefloor.

Mr Miyagi’s, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, 12pm to late, Friday August 2, brunch priced at Dhs199. Tel: (04) 420 7489  mrmiyagisdubai.com

August 2: Throw it back with a live performance

S Club 3 – made up of three members of the original S Club 7 – will take to the stage for the post-brunch party at the Dubai Marina party spot The Hideout on Friday August 2. Doors open at 4pm, and as well as offering free entry to all guests, there’s a brilliant drinks deal on offer. From 4pm to 8pm, guests can enjoy four hours of unlimited house drinks for Dhs200. S Club 3 members Bradley, Jo and Tina were three parts of the original group, who rose to fame with their catchy pop hits in the late 90s. When they take to the stage next month, fans can expect to her the trio perform their most popular songs including Never Had A Dream Come True, Reach and Don’t Stop Movin’.

The Hideout Dubai, 1st Floor, Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai Marina, 4pm to 8pm, Friday August 2, Dhs200. (058) 534 6000. thehideoutdubai.com

Around August 10: Head away for an Eid getaway

Eid Al Adha is likely to begin on Saturday August 10, and those who typically work Sunday to Thursday are set to enjoy a five-day weekend over Eid from Friday August 9. So, with an extra long weekend on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to book a last-minute getaway – and take advantage of some top deals too. Top of our travel lust-list is Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, who are offering a five-day program of exciting Eid activities, as well as some top discounts for travellers. From August 1 to 31, when you book a four night getaway at the luxury Robinson-crusoe inspired property, you’ll only pay for three nights, or book a seven night holiday and you’ll only pay for five nights. There are also added benefits such as a complimentary 50 minute spa treatment and sunset dolphin cruise on the four-night package, and 50 per cent off seaplane transfers when you book the seven night package. Use the code TSFME219 when booking.

soneva.com/soneva-fushi

August 14: See The 1975 live

Indie pop rockers The 1975 will grace the stage at Dubai’s new Coca-Cola Arena on Wednesday August 14, with tickets on sale now, priced from Dhs200 and available from the1975dxb.com. The band, consisting of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Matthew “Matty” Healy, lead guitarist Adam Hann, bassist Ross MacDonald, and drummer George Daniel, will come to Dubai as part of their world tour, which commenced earlier this year. When they take to the stage in Dubai, fans can expect to hear some of their best-loved hits including Chocolate, Love Me and Give Yourself A Try.

The 1975, Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai, Wednesday August 14, from Dhs200. the1975dxb.com

August 15: Get wet & wild at an emoji-themed waterpark party

Dust off that unicorn pool float – Aquaventure Waterpark’s evening pool party is back on Thursday August 15 at Atlantis The Palm. Atlantis’ famous waterpark is set to come alive at night next month with two DJ zones, energetic fire and laser shows, huge emoji inflatables and over Dhs50,000 in prizes up for grabs. The pool party will run from 8pm to 12am and early bird tickets are currently available online with 40 percent off, so you can get yours for Dhs149 if you book soon.

Aquaventure Emoji Party, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 8pm to 12am, Thursday August 15, early bird Dhs149. Tel: (04) 426 1169. atlantisthepalm.com

August 15 to 30: Rewatch all your favourite Disney movies

This summer, Dubai Opera is showing a line-up of Disney’s greatest hits from August 15 to August 30. Across the two weeks, Dubai Opera will show no less than 48 films, celebrating animated and live action titles from all decades. This mega movie marathon will show four different films each day, at 9.30am, 1pm, 4.30pm and 8pm. The incredible movie list includes classics such as The Little Mermaid, Lady and the Tramp, Mary Poppins, Peter Pan, Cinderella, Bedknobs And Broomsticks, The Aristocats, Honey I Shrunk the Kids and many more.

Disney movie marathon at Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, 9.30am, 1pm, 4.30pm and 8pm, August 15 to 30, from Dhs60 adults, Dhs40 children. dubaiopera.com.

August date TBC: Party at a brand new bar

Antika Bar will be opening its doors in DIFC in August and taking the spot of much-loved Sass Café, which closed in May 2018. Found on level one of Al Fattan Currency House, the new bar is expected to have a completely new look compared to the previous tenants. Inspired by the hidden theatres of 1950’s Lebanon, Antika Bar will have comfortable plush seating, with quirky antique decorations and a stage in the centre of the restaurant. There will be a big focus on live entertainment, as well as a weekly schedule of exciting events, including two weekly brunches and a ladies’ night. 

Antika Bar, Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, Dubai, opening August 2019. Facebook.com/Antikabardubai

From August 20: Enjoy a seven hour ladies’ night for Dhs200

Fancy taking your Dubai ladies’ night up a notch? A brand new ladies’ night is launching on Tuesday August 20 at Atmosphere in the Burj Khalifa. Taking Dubai’s party scene 122 levels up, the new night is brought to you by Secret Parties, and there’s seven hours of unlimited drinks up for grabs for the girls, with packages starting from Dhs200. The new Secret Parties event will run from 9pm to 12am, and included in the Dhs200 price for ladies is free flowing sparkling wine and a selection of bites. Or, upgrade to the Dhs300 package and you’ll also get bespoke cocktails and house drinks included. From 12am, all guests are then invited to head down to Armani Prive, where there’s unlimited drinks for ladies until 4am.

Secret Ladies Night, Atmosphere Lounge, 122nd floor, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, 9pm onwards, Tuesdays from August 20, from Dhs200 for ladies and Dhs500 for gents. Tel: (04) 888 3828. secret-parties.com

August 23 and 24: Enjoy a mega staycation at the first ever What’s On Lock In

You’re invited to the first ever What’s On Lock In: an epic, weekend-long summer party taking place from Friday August 23 to Saturday August 24. And because we want you to enjoy Dubai in the best possible way – pool parties, brunch extravaganzas, epic staycations and summer libations – we’re taking over the uber-cool Studio One Hotel at an unbeatable price.For Dhs699 for two, Tickets include early check in, a one-night stay at Studio One Hotel, TEPfactor fun, limited hair and nail services and massages, VitaDrip®infusions by The Elixir Clinic, all-inclusive Friday lunch at The Maine Street Eatery or Larte, five drinks at The Irish Village, five drinks at BOHO, yoga activities, breakfast at Larte, lunch at Mr Miyagi’s  or El Chapo’s Tacos, all day pool access, oh, and late check out.

What’s On Lock In, Studio One Hotel, from 10am Friday August 23 to 5pm Saturday August 24, Dhs699 per room per couple. For more details, visit WhatsOn.ae/Lock-In or book your tickets here.

August 29: Sing along as Westlife take to the stage

Irish boyband Westlife will take to the stage at the Coca-Cola Arena in City Walk on Thursday August 29 as part of their 20th Anniversary tour. Westlife first broke into the harts with their debut single, Swear It Again, and went on to have a string of hits including What Makes A Man, World of Our Own and Flying Without Wings.

Westlife at Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai, Thursday August 29, from Dhs250. livenation.me

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[ramz-igill-blog]

CHEAPEST HAJJ PACKAGES NON-SHIFTING

CHEAPEST HAJJ PACKAGES NON-SHIFTING 

Hajj, and sometimes Hajj, is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, where there is expected to be a Muslim at least once in their lives. The word Hajj is an Arabic word meaning "planning a journey".

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. The others are martyrdom (declaration of faith); prayer (daily prayer); zakaah (giving zakaah);

Who goes to Hajj?

It is important that Muslims go at least once to pilgrims to the elderly. You should think well, physically and economically. Those who travel for Hajj include their names in Hajj.

When is Hajj?

Hajj must be celebrated during the Islamic month of Ramadan, Hajj and Hajj. The Hajj Festival takes place between 8 and 12 pilgrims.

Since Islam is declining in 2010, it changes each year every year and ranges from 10 to 11 days compared to last year. It is expected that in 2017, will wait 30 August or September.

How many people go to Hajj?

Every year, people gather from 2 to 3 million people in Mecca every month. This is a wonderful forum for people living in the area. You can also be part of this great and conscientious event, and it is possible through

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How did Hajj begin?

Hajj (Prophet Muhammad) was founded by the Prophet (peace be upon him), but according to the Qur'an, Abraham can be, (alaihis peace)

Muslims believe that Ibrahim (peace alayhis) ordered God to leave his wife, Xajar and his son Ismail alone in early Mecca. In the torrent of water, Zajar was used to detonate seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa, but he did not find them. Returning to Ismail, he saw the child scratching the ground and jumping to the ground.

This is the well of Zamzam at the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. Keep it for drinking water.

What is the right of Hajj?

The main Hajj of Hajj is:

Ihram: When they arrive in Mecca, pilgrims enter Hajj (pilgrimage). I have to wear jewelry, which consists of two non-woven white covers on the body and shoes. Also clean, this dress is a symbol of equality and unity because there is no visible reminder of class, property, status or culture. Women are more difficult than the invisible face and hands.

Although in the case of art, Actuaria must include, inter alia, not cutting nails or hair, or not participating in sexual activities, discussions or battles.

Tawaaf: Every person walks around the Kaaba seven times (the cube structure and direction of Muslims anywhere) Haram Mosque. The Kaaba was built by Ibrahim (peace be upon him), the most famous of them in Islam.

Safa and Marwah: Pilgrimage seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwah during the Hajj while searching for water.

Mount Arafat: the pilgrimage to Mount Arafat, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) the last sermon, to remain vigilant.

Satan bat: After Arafat, he moved to Muzdalfah and then to Muna to throw the symbolic ramparts creating a stone whose stones on three walls are known as ember, shed. It symbolizes how the devil Ibrahim (alayhis salaam) tried to deceive God to follow him, but he was fighting when the Prophet stoned three times against him.

Eid al-Adha: On the tenth day of the month, Dhu al-Hijjah, Dhu'l-Hijjah, is the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, the third day of Eid al-Adha (Eid al-Adha). The pilgrims perform the sacrificial ritual of sacrifice and continue with other races to complete their pilgrimage.

The sacrifice of Abraham (peace alaihis) is ready to make his son Ishmael (peace alaihis) to God, who saved his son by sending a ram instead that will take him

What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?

Pilgrims can go to Mecca to perform the ritual at any other time of the year. This pilgrimage is known as Umrah, and unlike Hajj, which occurs on permanent Islamic dates, it is not mandatory.

Hajj is considered the basic worship of Muslims and the year of travel from all over the world to perform Hajj. Muslims, who are psychologically healthy, physically fit and financially strong, are committed to performing Hajj once in their lives. These rituals help to strengthen brotherly ties that prove that all are equal to God. It is a great opportunity to purify the soul and seek the forgiveness of God. So, if you are a lucky person, you can travel to Mecca to perform Hajj this year. Your job is to find the best Hajj packages for you and you should determine which Hajj packages will be ideal for you.

Every year, a large number of Muslim pilgrims from the United Kingdom set up their flights with outstanding pilgrimage services. They can show their consent and fulfill with God by performing their obligatory religious mission. In general, there are two types of Hajj packages offered by different travel agencies in the UK; change, or no change. Most people prefer to take advantage of the unchanging Hajj packages that make their trip very important. They also want to go with a reliable and consistent travel agency that usually charges very low fees for services. Therefore, you must know which packages do not change and that will help in the execution of sacred rites at low cost.

Difference between change packages or non-displacement

Your wait is more, and the most important is the fact that the pilgrimage is performed, and will stop in front of Kappa. However, you must understand the difference between packages that have been changed or unchanged, since you book your interested Hajj packages with the most excellent travel agency in the UK. By changing the Hajj packages, you will stay away from the Haram throughout the season and get away from the Haram. On the other hand, unchangeable packages, were the best religious group hotels near Mecca and will stay in hotels and prepare for Hajj services. They were sent to their hotels after Hajj services.

Why do people choose unchanging Hajj packages?

A package is usually planned that does not change for those people who wish to complete their holy duties in the best way. The package without changes will allow you to complete your spiritual mission without any problem. Pilgrims provide luxury facilities such as accommodation, transport, food and residents of the campus. Pilgrims can benefit from the best packages at cheap prices. Pilgrims can access hotel rooms even during Hajj and do not need to transport their belongings to Aziziyah.

Get the best package services without altering the hajj

So, if you live in the UK and want to get the best services from Hajj, we're here to help you. Make sure you have Hajj without problems and park. We will help you on your journey and we will provide you with reliable packages to meet all your needs. However, get the CHEAPEST HAJJ PACKAGES NON-SHIFTING Hajj package unchanged and get the required treatment and perform Hajj in an economical way.

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Norway Police Investigate Mosque Attack as Attempted ‘Act of Terrorism’

OSLO — The police in Norway said on Sunday that they were investigating a foiled attack at a mosque near Oslo as an attempted act of terrorism after a white gunman in a helmet and body armor opened fire but was overpowered before injuring anyone.

They also said a young woman found dead in the suspect’s home was his 17-year-old stepsister.

Friends and former classmates of the suspect, whose name has not been released by the police but was being reported by Norwegian media, said he had taken increasingly extremist stances against immigrants and women.

The mosque attack on Saturday came amid a polarizing debate in the country about immigration and Islam, and prompted the authorities to order police officers to guard mosques in the city. Officers, who generally do not carry weapons, were armed for the rest of the weekend, the authorities said.

“I guarantee that the police are doing everything we can to keep people safe,” a police spokesman, Jan Eirik Thomassen, said at a news conference on Sunday.

Prime Minister Erna Solberg, who expressed sympathy after the attack, said in a statement: “This is not supposed to happen in Norway. Norway should be safe. All places of worship shall be safe.”

Only three people were in the mosque, al-Noor Islamic Center in Baerum, preparing for Sunday’s celebration of the Eid al-Adha holiday, when a gunman opened fire there, the authorities said.

In interviews with Norwegian media, a friend of the suspect said he had said that women should not work outside the home, and former classmates said they had reported to his school that he had recently grown extremely hostile to immigrants and women.

The suspect, who had several guns in his possession when he was arrested, had expressed anti-immigrant and extremist views online, the authorities said.

“We’re investigating this as an attempt at carrying out an act of terrorism,” a police spokesman, Rune Skjold, said at a news conference on Sunday, adding, “We have no information indicating that he is part of any larger network.”

Mr. Skjold said a preliminary investigation had shown that the suspect expressed sympathy for, among other contentious figures, Vidkun Quisling, who was prime minister of Norway during the Nazi occupation during World War II.

The suspect, who has not shared his motives with the police, also recently wrote in an online forum that the gunman who killed over 50 people at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, was “a saint,” adding: “It’s been fun. Valhalla awaits.”

Mr. Skjold said the suspect — a Norwegian citizen from the municipality where the mosque is — had been charged with attempted murder in connection with the mosque attack and with murder after the young woman’s body was found.

The suspect will appear before a judge on Monday to determine whether he will remain in police custody.

An estimated 200,000 Muslims live in Norway, whose total population is over five million.

Norway has been grappling with the fear of rising extremist violence tied to immigration at least since 2011, when an attacker killed 92 people in a bombing and mass shooting. He left behind a detailed manifesto listing grievances about immigration and Islam, and calling for a Christian war to defend Europe against a threat of Muslim domination.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Solberg wrote on Facebook that Saturday’s attack was an assault on all Muslims in Norway, an attack on freedom of religion and “an attack on Norway.”

She added, “The perpetrator was alone, but we now his attitudes are shared by more.”

Yet Ms. Solberg’s attempt to send a message of unity was complicated by her leadership of a governing coalition that including the far-right, anti-immigration Progress Party.

Some social media commenters said that Norway’s government did too much to protect Muslims, while others argued that it did too little. And some people accused the prime minister of grieving only over the mosque, and not for the family of the dead woman.

On Sunday, as Muslims celebrated the beginning of Eid al-Adha, many Norwegians who were not Muslim gathered outside mosques in Oslo to stand guard. Some held posters saying, “Safe in prayer.” They included at least one cabinet minister.

A 65-year-old worshiper, Mohamed Rafiq, who helped thwart the attack and held the suspect until the police arrived, was hailed as a hero on social media and in the news media.

“These people have shown great courage,” Mr. Skjold said of those who helped stopped the attack.

Irfan Mushtaq, a former director of al-Noor Islamic Center and board member who witnessed the attack, said “extreme-right attitudes have become everyday matters” for Muslims in Norway. He said he was pleased that the police were investigating the attack as an act of attempted terrorism.

In March, the mosque introduced safety measures, including ID cards for entrants, after the New Zealand attack, according to the local news media.

Still, a spokesman for the mosque, Waheed Ahmed, told a local newspaper, “We thought we were safe in Norway, but it turns out we were not.”

Sahred From Source link World News

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Goat Meat Recipes: The Forgotten Food

by Patrice Lewis

Goat meat recipes may have slipped out of popularity in the United States, but goat is the most widely consumed red meat worldwide.

Goat aficionados know a lot about caprines. They can discuss milk ratios and foraging requirements with authority. They can tell you all about digestion issues and hoof care.

But the one thing many goat enthusiasts refuse to consider is the one thing goats have provided for thousands of years: meat.

Meat in American cuisine primarily highlights beef, pork, and chicken, but rarely ventures into the more exotic taste of goat. This is a shame, because goat meat (often referred to by its French name, chevon) is a delicacy appreciated the world over.

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It’s obvious why meat goat farming has been popular through history. Caprines are well-suited to marginal habitats where cattle would not thrive, resulting in a lot of bang for the buck when it comes to harvesting calories from the available forage. Boer goats, Kiko, Myotonic (Tennessee Fainting Goat), Savannah, Spanish, or any combination of these goat types are ideal meat producers.

Today, goat meat is far more popular with immigrants for whom chevon is the preferred cultural choice — it’s a staple in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, Asian, African, Greek, and southern Italian cuisines, among many others — but less common among the rest of the country. Goat meat consists of 6 percent of meat intake worldwide. Numbers are not easy to find for American consumption, leading to the conclusion it’s statistically insignificant.

But within niche markets, chevon is increasing in popularity. In 2011, the Washington Post reported, “Goat meat production is ramping up in the United States. The number of goats slaughtered has doubled every 10 years for the past three decades, according to the USDA. We’re closing in on one million meat goats a year.”

Because of their small size, most commercial meat producers won’t touch goats. But what won’t work for commercial enterprises often works beautifully for small homesteaders interested in putting a couple of animals in the freezer every year, particularly those who are unwilling or unable to handle larger livestock. “Goats represent sustainability, without the curse of factory production,” summarized the Post.

Goat meat recipes won’t replace beef or pork in America anytime soon — but it’s well worth considering for a number of reasons:

Goat meat is more environmentally sustainable than beef. Because goats are browsers (not grazers), they can thrive on land unsuited to beef production. Or — and this is something small landowners are discovering — goats can be pastured with cattle to eat things cows won’t touch (weeds, bushes, undesirable grasses), thus giving extra benefit from the same land.

Because the market for goat meat is still relatively small, most chevon derives from humanely raised animals rather than massive factory farms. Meat-processing facilities are geared for large animals; and since the most a goat will yield is about 40 pounds of meat, slaughtering is usually done by local humane butchers. As a result, almost all chevon is “locovore” in nature.

It is healthy. Goat meat nutrition has one-third fewer calories than beef, one-fourth less than chicken (and much less fat), and about two-thirds less than pork and lamb.

Goat stew

So why isn’t this über-meat better known and more widely eaten? Much has to do with experience or reputation. In some parts of the world, pungent cuts are preferred. “Caribbean cultures often prize the rankest, toughest bucks beyond their first rut,” noted the Washington Post. “It’s the meat from mature male goats that has the characteristic pungent barnyard aroma.” This, to put it mildly, is a huge turnoff for most American diners.

But chevon doesn’t have to be this way. Meat from kids six to nine months old yields tender, flavorful cuts. Many chefs have taken to kid as their signature meat.

In America, most goat meat comes in two forms. “Cabito” is meat from very young milk-fed goats between four and eight weeks of age, yielding buttery-soft tender meat. “Chevon” is meat from goats aged six to nine months and is more commonly available.

Since goat meat is so lean, the secret when cooking is not to let the meat dry out. Braising or cooking with moist heat, at lower temperatures, preserves the tenderness. Slow cookers, Dutch ovens, and other kitchen aids which keep moisture in with the meat are popular options.

When cooking chevon at home, it will be necessary to remove the caul, the fatty membrane found on goat meat. This can be done using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.

Goat meat is not as sweet as beef. Because of its savory characteristic, it works well with bold flavors: curry, pineapple, chilies, onion, garlic, wine (red or white), red pepper, coriander, rosemary, etc.

Cuts of meat can be categorized as either quick-cooking or slow-cooking. Quick-cooking cuts include tenderloin, loin chops, and rib chops. As its name implies, tenderloin is tender no matter what; and loin chops and rib chops both lend themselves to hot sears, fast sautés, or grilling. “Tender cuts of meat are usually best when cooked by a dry heat method such as roasting, broiling, or frying,” advises the American Meat Goat Association. “Tender cuts of goat meat are the legs, ribs, portions of the shoulder cut, the loin roast, and the breast.”

But the rest of the animal should be slow-cooked. In part, this is because of the large amount of interstitial collagen lacing the cuts. This needs time to break down, and it contributes beautifully to rich, hearty dishes. Some people don’t like the “bonier” nature of goat cuts, but bone will actually help flavor the meat. Place chevon in a slow cooker for several hours, marinating in spicy liquids, and you’ll have ambrosia for dinner.

Goat curry

So are you hyped up to try this delicacy? Consider sampling any of the following goat meat recipes, reprinted with kind permission from American Boer Goat Association’s recipe page:

Curry Goat Meat

3-5 lbs. goat meat

3 tbsp. curry powder

1 tsp. black pepper

1 lg. onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped

Salt to taste or seasoned salt

Clean and wash goat meat. Add curry powder, black pepper, seasoned salt, chopped onion, chopped garlic. Rub seasonings well into goat meat. On a cooking pan, place about 1 tablespoon butter or oil, whichever you prefer. Pour meat into pan with oil while it is still cold. Stir and cook until tender.

Spanish Goat Meat

2 lbs. goat meat

1/2 c. chopped onions

2 cloves garlic

4 med. potatoes

1 can tomato sauce

1 tbsp. salt

1 c. lemon juice

1/2 c. vinegar

1 tsp. oregano leaves

3 cilantro leaves

1/4 c. olive oil

1 pkg. Sazon Goya (seasonings)

2 c. water

2 leaves laurel

Take lemon juice and vinegar and wash goat meat. Let meat stand with that for 24 hours. Put all ingredients into large pot.  Cover and put on slow heat. Cook until tender.

Spicy Leg of Goat

1 leg of goat

1-3 tsp. salt

2 tsp. cinnamon

2 tbsp. corn starch

1-2 bay leaves

2 tsp. dried minced onions

Combine salt and cinnamon and rub all over meat. Place in roasting bag in shallow roasting pan with 1-2 cups of water, or a mixture of water and wine. Close and tie bag, cut about six slits to allow steam to escape. Cook until tender or meat thermometer reads 175 degrees F for medium or 180 degrees F for well done. Serve warm with gravy.

Gravy: Pour drippings into saucepan. Add bay leaf and onion; simmer gently covered for 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Mix cornstarch with 1/2 cup cold water, stir until smooth. Gradually add mixture to simmering pan drippings, stirring constantly. Simmer for another minute or two. Serve.

Did You Know?

Goat meat prices spike around ethnic holidays. Producers are advised to plan accordingly to market their animals. Holidays in which goat is traditionally served include:

“Crifests,” or independence days in Caribbean countries, occur in the fall and the traditional dish is curried goat.

Filipino families often serve goat meat during birthdays, baptisms, weddings, or during Christmas. Popular goat meat recipes include stew and roast.

Goat is often served on Christmas day in regions such as Mexico, Italy, and the North of Portugal.

Islamic holidays such as Ramadan and Eid ul-Adha revolve according to a lunar calendar. Though goat is traditional, it must be slaughtered and processed via humane Halal laws.

Goat is often cooked into festival foods and served during the Hindu holiday Diwali, which falls on November 7th of this year.

The demand for curry goat meat recipes increases during the winter holiday season to correspond with multiple religions and cultures.

    Goat Meat Recipes: The Forgotten Food was originally posted by All About Chickens

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What You Should Know About No-fuss Methods In Iso Xp Grass Fed Whey

New Challenges For Significant Details Of Grass Fed Organic Whey Canada

Organic Valley Meets 30th Year Anniversary With $1.1 Billion in Annual Sales In a year that posed many challenges for dairy farmers, the company celebrates its 30-year anniversary with boosted sales Much like pearls cultivated after a grain of sand spends time inside an oyster, Organic Valley is celebrating the beautiful result of 30 years in business, a pearl anniversary that the cooperative celebrates with pride. After three decades of hard work, the cooperative now celebrates $1.1 billion in annual sales, while going toe-to-toe with new challenges like innovation, farmers, and animal welfare. The cooperative’s business grew by over 4 percent in 2017, but an after-tax loss totaled $10 million, the first financial loss the cooperative has seen in 20 years. “Organic Valley has flourished over the past three decades and exceeded our founders’ expectations in nearly every way,” said George Siemon, CEO. “Bumps in the journey, market fluctuations—they are inevitable. But our priorities are, and always have been, our farmer-members, our employees, our animals, and our consumers. We’re confident that as we continue to work together as a cooperative, we are a force for good in a troubled time.” Again, just like irritating grains of sand that result in lustrous pearls, the cooperative reported in a press release that, even though it faced an after-tax loss, farmers are coming together to serve the common purpose and create better results moving forward—that is the beauty of our industry. This mirrors what the cooperative went through during the 1980s farming crisis, when farmers facing almost immanent bankruptcy decided that was not to be. Instead, the resilient farmers banned together to form a farmer-owned cooperative that keeps family farms thriving and brings healthy foods that taste great to dinner tables across the U.S. The result of this perseverance, you ask? A billion-dollar business strategy that proves doing things differently means making things work when the going gets tough. The company reported that budgets tightened across the co-op during 2017, when farmers saw that the national average dairy pay price, $32.85 per 100 pounds, was almost double that of conventional marketplaces, regardless of the reduced amount paid for the co-op’s milk.

For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit https://www.delimarketnews.com/cheese-dairy/organic-valley-meets-30th-year-anniversary-11-billion-annual-sales/lillie-apostolos/tue-04102018-1055/5801

Better Fitness Starts Right Now

The desire to get in shape is a struggle that many people have in common. If you don't know where to begin, it's hard to begin a regimen. It's best to first educate yourself on the subject. Here are some great tips that provide both so that you can start getting fit today. You can energize your confidence and re-focus on your fitness goals by purchasing an attractive piece of clothing to wear in your workouts. Even if it's not very flashy, you'll still want to wear it to the gym. Join a gym and pay your dues in advance. If you don't use the membership, you are likely to feel guilty about wasting money. That may be enough to encourage you to attend more often. This isn't an appropriate strategy for everyone; don't bother trying it unless you're finding it difficult to maintain your motivation. There is nothing to worry about if you don't. If you want to get fit and have fun doing it, go hiking. Riding your bike to work each morning will not only save you money on gas, but it is a great way to get in a workout every day. If your one-way commute is five miles or less, it should take you no longer than half an hour to ride to your work. A basic weight lifting routine of high weight and lower repetitions is good for building muscles. First, pick a muscle group, like your pectoral muscles. Make sure you do a set of reps using light weights. Your warm up should included 15 to 20 reps. Once you've finished your warm-up, do a set with a heavy weight. You should only be able to lift it six to eight times in succession. Before the third set, add five more pounds and repeat. If you don't like a specific activity, you just have to power through it. You may be inclined to resist doing exercises that you are not great at. So dominate these weak exercises by adding them into your regular routine and remember to keep practicing. Your workouts will be even more effective if you learn to control your breathing. If you do crunches or situps, try to forcefully exhale when your shoulders reach the top of the crunch or situp. Your muscles have to work harder if you exhale deeply. Most exercise programs do not burn the amount of calories most people think, so they exercise to the extreme. Overexertion can potentially cause muscle and joint damage, heart problems, and more. In addition, exercising too hard can cause your body to enter an anaerobic state. This is where your fat is not being metabolized, which causes your body to store fat instead of burn it. To live a more fit lifestyle, use this article's advice. It might be hard at first, but over time, you will see the results and it will help you feel better. Beginning and maintaining fitness is great for both the mind and body, so start it right away!

Basic Insights On Canada Programs

Economists from Rutgers University determined how much the land value of the Big Apple is actually worth, which turned out to be as much as the GDP of a North American country, CityLab says  in citing the study. To determine the cost, the researchers traced the astonishing increase in the value of Manhattan’s land since 1950 and found that certain factors contributed to the excessive real estate cost. New York Isn't Nation's Worst City for Renters (It's Close) The forthcoming paper in Regional Science and Urban Economics estimates that in 2014 the developable land in Manhattan — which does not include roads, parks and highways — was worth between $1.54 and $1.95 trillion, for an average of $1.74 trillion, CityLab says. This value is more than the combined market capitalization of the world’s three largest corporations that year and similar to the economic output of Canada — the 10th largest economy in the world. Researchers arrived at that number by analyzing the prices of vacant parcels of land in Manhattan. The researchers looked at the vacant parcels to conclude the land value without having to worry about the value of the structure sitting atop of it. Using this information, the researchers compiled a data list of vacant land transactions from 1950 to 2015 to showcase a land value index that represents the change in Manhattan’s land value over the years, adjusted for inflation, CityLab reports . Over the span of those 65 years that were analyzed, the value of Manhattan land grew at an annual rate of 5.5 percent (adjusted for inflation). Whey Protein However, the researchers identified three major real estate cycles in Manhattan that are anything but linear. NYC Still Second Most Expensive Rental Market in the U.S. The value of Manhattan land was relatively flat during 1950s and ’60, which coincided with the period of the great suburban boom.

For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Manhattan-Land-Worth-Canada-Entire-GDP-Report-NYC-New-York-City-Real-Estate-Expensive-481258661.html

You Want Good Information About Vitamins And Minerals Then See The Article Below

Are you aware of your body's needs? Many people are not fully aware. There are many vitamins that can be very beneficial to your five senses and your major organs. This article will help you to understand the benefits of the major vitamins. You have to know how your supplements interact to ensure they're being absorbed adequately. For instance, iron can be hard to absorb because of calcium. Try not to have two forms of nutrients that react poorly with one another. Iron is a key component for building red blood cells. These blood cells bring oxygen throughout the body. Women typically need a higher iron intake than men do. If you suffer from fatigue, you may need to have an iron deficiency. If you are changing your life for the better, consider what nutrients your body needs. The more you care for yourself, the less you'll have to see the doctor. You can find vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, in bananas, dairy, asparagus and popcorn. Vitamin B2 deficiency can cause cracked and scaly skin and can decrease hemoglobin levels in your blood. Patients who get enough riboflavin may face a decreased risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome, cancer, anemia, and cataracts. We always try to be healthy, but sometimes it's just not in our budget. Vitamins and minerals help to get rid of all of the toxins in your body. Supplements are very important in today's world. Most of the foods that are for sale today at your local market are processed types, lacking many of the important nutrients needed for healthy living. A great multivitamin can help you start the day off right. There is no point in using prenatal vitamins if past menopause. Women sometimes take these supplements, even if they are not pregnant, to improve the appearance of their nails and hair. Even though this is not considered dangerous, it is not recommended due to the products containing more iron than a normal dosage. Vitamin C is in many citrus fruits and other vegetables and fruits. If you don't get enough in your diet, a supplement is best. This potent vitamin help prevent and treat colds, gum disease, acne, stomach ulcers, and skin infections. Recent studies have suggested that vitamin C has a positive effect on individuals that have ADHA, Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Talk to your family doctor to find out your body is low on any one nutrient. Finding out what you may be lacking can help to ensure you are taking the proper supplements. Many people don't have a ton of money to spend on food, which means they do not always select the most nutritious choices. If you want to make sure that you get the nutrition you need to stay healthy, pick up a couple of bottles of vitamins. Did you gain some new knowledge about how your body works? Hopefully, you understand how important vitamins and minerals are. With your new knowledge, be sure to take good care of yourself!

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It’s been a rough couple of weeks … 2 hurricanes slammed the continental U.S., another even stronger one devastated the archipelago of Puerto Rico.  Four major earthquakes have hit Mexico so far this month. Political upheaval and controversy reigned, not only here in the U.S. but around the globe.  We all need to look to something positive, look at those people who thumb their noses at trouble and just roll up their sleeves and get down to the business of helping others.  Today’s ‘good people’ are those who take the meaning of the word ‘community’ seriously, who believe that we are all in this together and we need to set aside differences to help one another.

Julius Hatley is 95-years-young, a World War II veteran, and lives alone in Ft. Worth, Texas.  At the beginning of summer, back in June, Mr. Hatley’s central air-conditioning as well as a smaller window unit both went caput, so Mr. Hatley took to sitting out on his porch most of the time, for inside the house was unbearable.  Finally, one day Mr. Hatley knew he had to do something … summer was only beginning and he was already miserable.  But what to do?  So, the only thing he could think of was to call 911, which is what he did.

“This wasn’t a regular 911 call,” according to Fort Worth Police Officer William Margolis. “It was what you’d label ‘low priority’ because we’re not AC techs.” I have to wonder if many police departments would have just written it off as a ‘no-priority’ call?  But not these guys.  Officer Margolis and his partner, Christopher Weir, after responding to a few higher priority calls that morning, went to check on Mr. Hatley. They found that he had no working air-conditioner, and at 8:30 a.m., the temperature inside his house was already 85° (F), 29.4° (C).

Now these guys were under no obligation, but out of the goodness of their hearts, they went to Home Depot to buy Mr. Hatley a window unit to replace his broken one.  And, just as these things so often do, their effort gained momentum when they explained to the staff at Home Depot what they were doing.  Staff and management pooled their available cash and contributed $150 toward the air conditioner!

Later that day, Officer Weir returned to Hatley’s home with another Ft. Worth Officer, Steven Rebrovich, and they installed the unit.  Mr. Hatley was appreciative and excited beyond words, but the story doesn’t stop there.  Once the story hit the news, the community came together in the spirit of … community!  An air conditioning company replaced his central air free of charge, and others took care of replacing his windows and re-painting his house!  Other members of the community check on Mr. Hatley and deliver groceries every week!  This, friends, is what being a community is about.  This is what being a human is all about.  Let us all give two thumbs up to Officers Weir and Margolis, certainly, but to ALL those who have come to help Mr. Hatley!  And a thumbs up to Mr. Hatley himself for his service to our nation all those years ago.

In the small eastern Turkish town of Karakocan, nobody goes hungry.  The Merkez Restaurant is just one of many in town that feeds people who need a meal, free of charge.  Mehmet Ozturk, 55, the owner of Merkez, says he always keeps at least three tables reserved for the needy, even during rush hour when his restaurant is packed.

Ozturk says at least 15 people come to his restaurant every day to receive a free meal. According to residents, around 100 people eat for free each day across the whole town.  The tradition to feed the needy for free first started in the 1940s at the Merkez Restaurant, one of the first eateries in town, when the former owners started offering free meals to those in need every day. The practice was quickly picked up by other restaurants in the area. Ozturk says: “The tradition has always been here, even 70 years ago. For us it was a natural thing to do, something we learned from our elders.”

There are about five large restaurants in the quaint but surprisingly vibrant town centre, and each one honours the philanthropic tradition. Individuals receiving free food tend to be regulars, familiar faces who visit the restaurant to have at least two meals a day. Ozturk says that a large margin of the regular diners suffer from disabilities, such as mental illness, such as regular Galip who says, “The Merkez is my favourite place in town, because the food is great.“

The generosity goes beyond feeding those in need, as restaurants also offer feasts for free for the whole town on Islamic holidays including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and throughout the holy month of Ramadan.  Again, we see what community is really about.  Hats off to the restauranteurs of Karakocan, Turkey for taking care of the less fortunate!

And then there’s Gothenburg, Sweden.  Gothenburg is the 2nd largest city in Sweden, with about 600,000 residents.  The city is one of the most segregated in Europe and is dependent on the fossil industry, and yet it was voted the world’s “most sociable city.” How can that be, you ask?  Through a series of community initiatives that promote sharing and collaboration, the city is turning things around.

Just a few of these initiatives are ,,,

Collaborative Economy Gothenburg, a non-profit promoting the collaborative economy in the city through projects and events like Global Sharing Week.

Bike Kitchen, an open do-it-yourself workshop where people can repair their bikes with access to tools, space, and assistance from others. They also hold workshops where people can learn to repair bikes.

The nonprofit ridesharing movement Skjutsgruppen, where private individuals can bridge both physical distances and distances between each other as human beings by sharing vehicles.

These are just three of the twelve initiatives this community has created to overcome the obstacles the city, like any other city, faces, and I strongly urge you to take a look at the entire list … there are some terrific ideas there!  It just goes to show that when people pull together, when they put aside meaningless differences, they can do marvelous things!

Mexico first experienced an earthquake of 8.1 on September 8th, and another of 7.1 on September 19th.   The one in Oaxaca on the 8th was the strongest in living memory and the death toll quickly rose.  Rescuers were on the scene quickly, and one seven-year-old named Frida is responsible for helping find people amid the rubble.  Oh, did I happen to mention that Frida is a Labrador retriever employed by the Mexican Navy?

When the second quake hit Mexico City just over a week later, Frida was once again on the job. Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto formally recognised the labrador’s determination and bravery on Twitter on Friday morning …

“This is Frida. She belongs to SEMAR and has helped save 52 lives in various natural disasters at national and international levels.”

Yes, I know … the title of this post is Good People Doing Good Things … but this dog gave her all, and I think she deserves a bit of recognition also. And now, Frida has been immortalized as a piñata!

I hope you enjoyed today’s good people (and dog).  Isn’t it great to read about people pulling together, putting aside differences in the true spirit of ‘community’?  I think every city could take a lesson from Gothenburg, don’t you?  Until next Wednesday, my friends, lets all try to do something good for somebody this week.  Love and hugs!

  Good People Doing Good Things — Communities It’s been a rough couple of weeks … 2 hurricanes slammed the continental U.S., another even stronger one devastated the archipelago of Puerto Rico. 

[juliegomez-blog1]

Austin’s Affordable Housing Situation

Earlier this month, Austin City Council adopted the city’s first Strategic Housing Blueprint, an affordable housing plan that sets a goal of creating 60 thousand affordable units in the next decade for households earning approximately 60 thousand dollars or less per year. The city plans on meeting this goal integrating policy initiatives and working with community partnerships.

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According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD), affordable housing is anything less than 80 percent of Median Family Income (MFI) of an area and HUD states that a tenant should make four times the cost of their rent.

In Austin, the MFI is about 65 hundred dollars a month. So, by the HUD’s standards, rent should be 16 hundred dollars or less per month.

For most cities, ensuring affordable housing units are available is as simple as requiring a developer to supply apartments or homes that meet the city’s needs, these are commonly referred to as, “mandatory inclusion policies,” or rent control tools. However, there are three states in the country that prohibit cities from creating rent controlling policies: Tennessee, Arizona, and Texas.

Because Austin can’t use rent control policies, the city instead offers dealer incentives or, zoning rebates, to encourage developers to include affordable housing options in their complexes. Over the last few years the city has seen a spike in these incentives as developers have increased housing production.

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“The city depending on where the building is located, there are certain areas where the city can say you can build 5 or 6 stories depending on if you reserve a certain number of units for affordable housing,” said Jonathan Tomoke, Senior Research Analysis with The City of Austin.

So in the Rainey District, the developers cannot build complexes above 40 feet, about three stories. If a company wants to build higher than three stories, it would have to request special permission from the city of Austin. If approved, the developer can either pay a fee to the city for breaking that zoning regulation or reserve a certain amount of their units for affordable housing. That practice is what the city calls, “dealer incentive.” It’s one of three strategies Austin uses to fund affordable housing development.

“In these cases no money exchanges hand. In these situations there is no exchange of money,” added Tomoke.

Tomoke is the lead developer of Austin’s Housing Inventory, a dataset released this January by The City of Austin. Though the dataset is a non-inclusive account of the city’s affordable housing options, it shows dealer incentive programs are just one of the three main tools the city uses in it’s affordable housing plan.

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Since 2013, 66 percent of new housing units have been developed through the incentive program. So of the roughly three thousand new housing units developed across the city in the last four years, 20 thousand are from development companies that have allocated units toward affordable housing in order avoid paying city permits.

The benefit of having these dealer incentive programs is that affordable housing is more available in what the Kirwan Opportunity Index classifies as high opportunity areas. New developers are investing in neighborhoods with a booming economy. They want to be near jobs, shopping districts, and with strong educational opportunities.

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The Kirwan Opportunity Index advises that affordable housing be developed not just in low opportunity areas, but in high and medium opportunity areas as well. You don’t want to trap low income workers in areas with few resources for work or transportation, but you also don’t want to force people out of low income neighborhoods because that prevents the neighborhood from developing.

In recent years the city of Austin has done a great job developing affordable housing in high opportunities areas, because investors want to develop near public transportation and close to employers. However, the contract lengths of affordable units in new developments vary with each new building. So while right now there’s a development boom in Austin, so a lot of affordable housing is due to dealer incentives. However, there’s no incentive for the current developments to continue providing units at anything lower than market rate after their current contracts expire.

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“The developer incentives we’re talking about are typically not going to reach the deeper levels unless there’s some subsidy there,” said Tomoke.

By subsidy, Tomoke means outside investment. These developments are looking for profit and the city has no interest in providing funding for profit companies to make more money. That’s where the other two funding types were talking about come into play. A&D and RHDA are funding resources the city sets aside for non-profit organizations, like Foundation Communities.

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“I think the perspective on where affordable housing should be has shifted over time,” said Cacki Young, Foundations Communities Special Housing Programs Coordinator, “There’s an argument to be made there on providing affordable housing in low opportunity areas, where people need it and bringing affordable housing to higher opportunity areas where people have more of a chance for upward mobility.”

Foundation Communities currently has over 1700 affordable housing units among their twenty two locations around Austin. According to the Affordable Housing Inventory, only (xx) have received funding from Austin, ADHA programs. Young said Foundation Communities is able to keep its rent prices down through outside funding.

“We don’t have huge rate jumps that would be destabilizing. There certainly have been years where rents come down. [The rates] are dictated by funders. As their lease is being renewed their rent will change for that.”

In 2015, the company started development on four new locations. They built the first affordable housing in downtown in forty-five years and the units were filled almost instantly.

“This housing was intended for the bus boys that work at all the restaurants and the wait staff and musicians that work regularly. I don’t’ know that it’s panned out necessarily that way,” Young said, referring to the demographic of tenants in their downtown location, “The rents are from mid-400 [dollars per month] to high 600 [dollars per month] the need for that is so great, it doesn’t matter that they didn’t get the people they expected.”

With regards to building 60 thousand new units in the next twenty years and looking at the data we have for the last ten years, the city will need to do one of three things: 1. Hope that the development boom it’s currently going though continues at this rapid rate of growth 2. Hope that the state of Texas repeals the law that restricts incentive based housing requirements 3. Really up their investment in A&D and RHDA funding for affordable housing.

[omgstupendousbouquetbasement]

French Charities Rescue 81 More Migrants off Libya

Two French charities pulled another 81 migrants from the waters off Libya Sunday, bringing the number of those it rescued at sea since Friday to 211.

Doctors Without Borders and SOS Mediterranean jointly operate the Norwegian-flagged rescue ship Ocean Viking.

Most of those it picked up over the past three days are Sudanese men, including the 81 rescued from a flimsy rubber dinghy Sunday. Witnesses on the Ocean Viking say the men on the raft waved and cheered when they saw the ship approaching.

"We're the only ones in the area, the Libyan coast guard doesn't respond," SOS Mediterranean rescue coordinator Nicholas Romaniuk told an AFP reporter.

He said he expects more migrants leaving Libya over the next few days because of good weather and the Eid al-Adha holiday reducing the number of police patrolling the beaches.

Meanwhile, a Spanish aid group, Open Arms, said it has 160 migrants aboard its rescue ship, including three who need "specialized medical attention."

Open Arms founder Oscar Camps made another appeal Sunday to European governments for help, especially Italy, which is the closest safe port.

"Tenth day on board on a scorching Sunday in August. We have 160 reasons to carry on, 160 human beings who have the right to disembark at a safe port. Shame on you, Europe," Camps tweeted.

Italy's far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Italy is not "legally bound nor disposed to take in clandestine unidentified migrants."

Italy has complained it has done more than its share of allowing migrants to dock and wants other EU nations to do more to help.

Thousands of migrants from Africa try to reach EU shores from Libya every year. Those who are not rescued by charities are either left on unsafe boats to or picked up by the Libyan coast guard and returned to Libya, where they are housed in detention facilities.

Some of those facilities have been caught in the fighting between rival governments in Libya. A missile slammed into one detention building outside Tripoli in July, killing 53.

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[omgstupendousbouquetbasement]

French Charities Rescue 81 More Migrants off Libya

Two French charities pulled another 81 migrants from the waters off Libya Sunday, bringing the number of those it rescued at sea since Friday to 211.

Doctors Without Borders and SOS Mediterranean jointly operate the Norwegian-flagged rescue ship Ocean Viking.

Most of those it picked up over the past three days are Sudanese men, including the 81 rescued from a flimsy rubber dinghy Sunday. Witnesses on the Ocean Viking say the men on the raft waved and cheered when they saw the ship approaching.

"We're the only ones in the area, the Libyan coast guard doesn't respond," SOS Mediterranean rescue coordinator Nicholas Romaniuk told an AFP reporter.

He said he expects more migrants leaving Libya over the next few days because of good weather and the Eid al-Adha holiday reducing the number of police patrolling the beaches.

Meanwhile, a Spanish aid group, Open Arms, said it has 160 migrants aboard its rescue ship, including three who need "specialized medical attention."

Open Arms founder Oscar Camps made another appeal Sunday to European governments for help, especially Italy, which is the closest safe port.

"Tenth day on board on a scorching Sunday in August. We have 160 reasons to carry on, 160 human beings who have the right to disembark at a safe port. Shame on you, Europe," Camps tweeted.

Italy's far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Italy is not "legally bound nor disposed to take in clandestine unidentified migrants."

Italy has complained it has done more than its share of allowing migrants to dock and wants other EU nations to do more to help.

Thousands of migrants from Africa try to reach EU shores from Libya every year. Those who are not rescued by charities are either left on unsafe boats to or picked up by the Libyan coast guard and returned to Libya, where they are housed in detention facilities.

Some of those facilities have been caught in the fighting between rival governments in Libya. A missile slammed into one detention building outside Tripoli in July, killing 53.

  from Blogger https://ift.tt/2yUq1bQ via IFTTT