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On Monday (20th Jan) I took the opportunity to speak in an important and very well-attended debate on pay day loan companies in the House of Commons. Many of those who spoke agreed that there is an urgent need to improve the regulation of this industry. I spoke about the devastating impact pay day loans can have on the lives of many people in my constituency, and particularly those who are vulnerable and already struggling with their finances.

My full speech on pay day loan companies is at the end of this post and the full Commons debate can be read here:

Also on Monday (20th Jan), I joined my colleagues in the Shadow Communities and Local Government team on the frontbench and questioned Nick Boles, the Planning Minister on why the Government is taking away powers from local councils and communities and making it harder for local people to shape their high streets.

Localism was a key Conservative pledge during the 2010 election, but the NPPF and the Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013, along with reams of secondary legislation and vicious local authority cuts, have completely torn apart the Government’s promise to instil localism in the planning system and it appears that this is only likely to get worse in the coming months.

My speech on pay day loan sharks:

Roberta Blackman-Woods (City of Durham): I thank my hon. Friend the Member for West Bromwich West (Mr Bailey) and the Business, Innovation and Skills Committee for their excellent report on payday lending and for doing so much to raise the profile of the issue, including by stimulating debate. There is a strong degree of cross-party consensus on what needs to be done. I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Sheffield Central (Paul Blomfield) for doing so much to bring the problems of payday loans to our attention.

Most MPs will know from their constituency casework, and from the growing number of payday loan companies on our high streets, that payday loans are becoming more of a problem for our constituents. I hope to be able to run through my four main concerns, the first of which is the exorbitant interest rates charged by those companies, which should not be tolerated in our society. Pay-back rates of 5,800% are not unheard of, and APRs of 2,600% are not at all unusual. That creates huge problems for people paying back the loans. Despite this, more and more people have to turn to payday loan companies just to make ends meet. That indicates that there is a huge cost of living problem in our society, and that many jobs simply do not pay people enough money to live on.

In 2010, just 1% of people getting advice from citizens advice bureaux had debt from at least one payday loan. That rose to 4% in 2012 and 10% this year. Evidence from Citizens Advice also reveals irresponsible lending, and says that it is intrinsic to the industry. New 12-month figures from the national charity’s payday loan tracker reveal that 61% of loans still come without proper checks to assess whether borrowers can afford to repay. It also found not only that three out of four borrowers found it difficult to repay their loan, but that in 84% of cases lenders were breaking their promises to freeze interest and charges for those who were struggling.

National Debtline says that calls for help with payday loan issues soared from 776 in 2008 to more than 20,000 in 2012. A ComRes survey found that 98% of MPs and 93% of the public believe there is a problem with payday lending, and that 66% of MPs and 65% of the public support a cap on the total cost of credit. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that the Government were forced to take action earlier this year, but I am not sure that requiring the FCA regulator to clamp down on excessive interest rates is really good enough, especially when it will be some months before any such scheme can be implemented. Labour put forward an amendment to the Financial Services Bill, which would have given the new FCA clear powers to tackle the overall cost and duration of high-cost loans, especially where it could demonstrate consumer detriment. It is a real pity that the Government did not accept the amendment.

My second concern is the methods used to trap people in cycles of debt. I have a constituent who, when desperate and applying for a loan, was told that she had to give her mobile phone number. Thereafter, she was sent texts that offered her more loans and offered to give her more money to pay outstanding loans. She was contacted at the end of the month, when she was particularly short of money, and urged to take out more loans.

When she came to my surgery she was literally at her wits’ end and did not know what to do. That case is not unique and we really should not continue to allow companies to behave in this way. If this sort of bullying was taking place anywhere else, it would be tackled. My hon. Friend the Member for West Bromwich West mentioned how advertising is increasingly being targeted at children. Again, that is a disgrace and something that should be brought to an end immediately. Research shows that of those sampled who had taken out a payday loan, 60% regret the decision and 48% believe that their loan has made their financial situation worse. Only a tiny number think it has had a positive impact on their finances.

My third concern relates to the proliferation of these companies on our high streets. Action the Government have taken to deregulate use classes and permitted development rights means that it is much easier for payday loan companies to set up on our high streets without having to gain planning permission. This is a step in completely the wrong direction. We are urging the Government to take action on this immediately by returning powers to local councils and local communities, so that they are able to reduce the numbers of payday loan companies on their high streets. We know, from a number of different surveys undertaken with communities, that local people want those powers and they want their councils to be able to reduce the number of payday loan companies in their area.

My fourth point concerns the way in which payday loan companies target disadvantaged areas and prey on poor people. Research recently carried out by Professor Sarah Banks at Durham university described payday loan companies as preying on the poor. She said that many people have multiple loans with payday and doorstep lenders at annual interest rates of up to 4,000% even though their incomes are very small, and that the companies did not even look at the other debts people had or whether they could afford to repay them. They lent to people, even though some of them had only very small amount savings or no savings at all. She gave lots of examples of the unscrupulous way in which loans were being targeted, particularly at those with very low incomes.

As several hon. Members have said, we need to find ways out of this situation, and one of them is to support and promote credit unions better. I am pleased that our new Bishop of Durham has signed up to the Durham County credit union. It is important we see this as a way of fighting poverty, particularly in areas like the north-east that still have very high rates of unemployment and where people are losing lots of money through welfare reforms and increasingly being driven to loan sharks just to make ends meet. We must ensure that people see credit unions as a viable way forward and give them the support they need to join them.

On Wednesday (8th January), I spoke in two debates in Parliament, both on important planning issues. In the House of Commons Chamber, I spoke about the importance of giving local communities the tools to shape their local areas.

Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs) can be found in Casinos and Bookmakers. A number of different games to be played on them but they are most commonly associated with Virtual Roulette. The current maximum stake on B2 machines is £100 (In multiples of £10), meaning that £100 can be bet every 20 seconds.

Many local communities and local authorities have raised concerns that betting shops are clustering in areas with high levels of deprivation.

To deal with these issues, local authorities should be empowered to take action in response to local concerns about betting shops and FOBTs. In addition, action should be taken to minimise potential harm from FOBTs, strong consumer protection measures should be in place and data collection should be standardised to inform future decision making.

Our policy announcements are designed to deal with these issues and empower local authorities to respond to local concerns about the spread of betting shops and FOBTs.

My full speech on fixed odds betting terminals is at the end of this post and the full debate can be read here:

Earlier in the day I spoke in a Westminster Hall debate and once again raised my concerns about the Government’s planning policies. These concerns were echoed by Members from all sides of the House who spoke strongly and powerfully on behalf of their communities.

During the debate I called upon the Planning Minister, Nick Boles MP, to explain why the Government has gone back on their promise to instil localism in the planning system.

A future Labour Government would ensure that local people and councils have greater powers in shaping their high streets. Our approach is a strongly localist one, and we want to work with local communities to deliver growth and development.

My full Westminster Hall speech can be found here:

Roberta’s full speech on fixed odds betting terminals:

Roberta Blackman-Woods (City of Durham) (Lab): We have had an extremely lively debate this afternoon on an issue that many Members across the Chamber clearly feel strongly about. Unfortunately, what we heard from the Minister was breathtaking complacency and the usual “blame Labour” mantra, but it will not wash. It is this Government who are failing to take action on the issue and who have facilitated a proliferation of FOBTs and betting shops on our high streets. Despite the Minister’s speech, a number of Government Members seemed to agree with us that additional powers should be given to local government. It will be interesting to see whether they rediscover their commitment to localism and vote with us in the Lobby.

A number of Members have made excellent speeches this afternoon. My right hon. Friend the Member for East Ham (Stephen Timms) spoke of the inadequacy of local government powers to control betting shops, and pointed out that action under those powers can be overturned on appeal. My hon. Friend the Member for West Bromwich East (Mr Watson), who has done a great deal of work on this topic, helpfully drew attention to the inadequacy of the Government’s research strategy. My hon. Friends the Members for Preston (Mark Hendrick), for Sunderland Central (Julie Elliott), for North West Durham (Pat Glass), for Rutherglen and Hamilton West (Tom Greatrex) and for York Central (Hugh Bayley) noted the prevalence of gambling outlets in low-income areas, the problems of debt that that causes, and the negative impact of too many betting shops on the high street. My hon. Friend the Member for North West Durham also noted the rise in criminality that is associated with betting shops in some areas.

My hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Riverside (Mrs Ellman) injected a much-needed degree of sense into the debate by returning us to the central issue of localism. My hon. Friends the Members for Bradford South (Mr Sutcliffe) and for Islwyn (Chris Evans) spoke of the importance of getting regulation right, not least because of the large number of people who work in the industry.

Neither I nor my colleagues object to a betting shop or two on the high street, and I appreciate that the industry has a code to encourage responsible gambling, but, as a number of Members have said, that does not go far enough. It is vital for the Government to take action to recognise the wishes and needs of local communities. As many of my hon. Friends have pointed out, there are more than 33,000 FOBTs making £1.5 billion each year for the big bookmakers—that constitutes about half their annual profits—and traditional bookies throughout the country are being turned into mini-casinos where people can gamble up to £300 a minute. Liverpool alone contains 559 terminals, which took £607 million last year. Newham in east London contains 87 betting shops with 348 terminals, and figures released recently by the Greater London Authority showed a 13% increase in the number of betting shops in London’s town centres between January 2010 and December 2012. We have heard how some players have become addicted to FOBTs, and how the machines, and the proliferation of betting shops that promote them, are causing debt and misery, as well as acting as a magnet for crime and antisocial behaviour.

We always made clear that FOBTs were on probation, and it was said during the Second Reading of the Gambling Act 2005 that we would keep them under review. In 2009, when we were in government, we said that would conduct a review because we were concerned about these machines. The current Government, however, have decided to do nothing: five years on, there has been no review. Government Members claim that local authorities have the powers that they need to regulate betting shops, but we have heard time and again from councillors of all parties that that is simply not the case. The next Labour Government will change planning and licensing laws to give councils the right to control the number of betting shops in their areas. If betting shops are not a problem, as the industry is keen to emphasise, they have nothing to fear from such a change.

There is considerable cross-party agreement on this issue. As the Leader of the Opposition pointed out during Prime Minister’s Question Time today, the Mayor of London and the Conservative head of the Local Government Association have said that local authorities do not have the power to limit the number of FOBTs. Indeed, the Prime Minister acknowledged during Question Time that there was a problem in the gaming and betting industry, and stated that we need to “sort it out.” If he recognises the problem, why is he not supporting our motion this evening?

As for the Liberal Democrats, during their annual conference in September they agreed to a motion that would give councils the power to limit the number of betting shops in their area, agreeing specifically to put betting shops in a new separate use class, although they had previously voted against such a motion in the House of Commons. That, of course, is typical Liberal Democrat behaviour. The wording of their motion was very similar to the wording of our motion today. I urge Government Members to recognise that, and to support our motion in order to implement their own policy commitments.

The country is experiencing a cost of living crisis. The average person has become £1,600 worse off since the current Government came to power. People are facing extreme difficulties in affording child care, rail fares and heating their homes. While the Members on the Government Benches are handing tax cuts out to millionaires, millions of people are struggling, and it is at a time such as this that the most vulnerable in our society need protecting. That is exactly what my colleagues and I are proposing in this motion. As my right hon. Friend the Member for Doncaster North (Edward Miliband) highlighted when he launched Labour’s policy last month, in the poorest areas these betting shops are spreading like an epidemic along high streets with the pawn shops and payday lenders that are becoming symbols of Britain’s cost of living crisis. Our local high streets must meet the needs of local communities, not simply the wishes of betting companies and other similar groups.

We know that the most urgent case needs to be made for changing again the system of use class orders. Use classes play a central role in the planning system by defining the potential uses of buildings. They not only protect certain uses, but also streamline the system by allowing for some changes without the need to apply for planning permission. However, over the course of last year the Government have decided to do away with the protections offered by the use class system and in doing so have stripped communities of a say in the shape of their high streets. In May 2013 the Government introduced changes to use class orders to allow retail use to change to financial institutions without planning permission for a period of two years, allowing the possibility of more betting shops on our high streets and they also now have the audacity to say they may make this change permanent. We are arguing that the Government should do what they say they want to do and give powers to local communities to have a say over what is happening in their high streets, so that if a problem is identified with an over-proliferation of gambling and betting shops local communities are able to pull the plug on these gaming machines, which are unwanted in many of our areas.

CPA Conference 25 Nov

I was honoured be invited to speak on such an important topic at this one day conference, part of the International Parliamentary Conference on the Post-2015 Agenda. Looking back over a decade of the MDGs we see some impressive changes, but we still have a long way to go to achieve gender equality.

Every goal in the MDGs relates to women in some way, so progress in several areas has had a positive impact. Big advances under MDG 2 have led to increases in girls’ enrolment in primary education. Changes as small as introducing street lighting in a community in Lesotho have made all the difference in enabling girls to travel home safely from secondary school.

However there is still a gender gap in school completion rates, with far fewer girls than boys finishing their education. We know that 99% of maternal deaths are caused by poor education and poverty, which makes tackling these issues together even more important.

As we look beyond 2015 the commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment remains a key international priority, but the MDGs will not be replaced with a similar set of tasks. Instead we will take a new approach, focusing on building partnerships to tackle wider issues.

It was great to hear parliamentarians from around the world speaking so powerfully on these issues and as the Right Honourable Baroness Armstrong of Hilltop emphasized in her speech, this is not just about increasing women’s access to power, but increasing their influence in politics, society and beyond.

As we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, it is important to remember that gender equality and women’s empowerment are not abstract targets. These are human rights to which every woman and girl is entitled.

I would like to extend my warmest thanks to the delegates from Voluntary Services Overseas, The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK, and the parliamentarians from around the world for making this such an engaging event.

My hotel manager was very pleased indeed that Labour brought the sunshine to Brighton but I think we did much more than that. Thanks to a wonderful speech from Ed Miliband we not only have policies to offer to the electorate but a message of hope as well. It’s not surprising that the media have concentrated on Ed’s pledge to freeze energy prices or that we have seen a backlash from the industry but what is really important is that now people know more about our leader and can see quite clearly that he is on their side, taking up their concerns and fighting for a more just society. He really does get the issue of falling living standards and the struggle many, many families have up and down the country, including in my Durham constituency, just to make ends meet.

But I am also delighted with his announcements about how Labour would deliver new housing including a commitment to new towns, urban extensions and garden cities. Labour understands the need to build and shape places as communities and I am looking forward to doing a lot more work on this.

My week as you would expect was dominated by meetings and fringes on housing and planning issues with for example TCPA, RTPI, RIBA, LGA, Core Cities, FMB, The Smith Institute and many others including a very interesting Demos session chaired by Esther Rantzen on the housing issues facing older people.

But I didn’t ignore Higher Education or skills matters either and I thought some of the debates about how to get more of our young people not ony skilled but into jobs through greater use of apprenticeships (including higher level apprenticeships) was worthy of more attention by the media and others. These discussions also touched on many of the procurement issues that I have been raising for some time.

I left conference today with a new spring in my step despite the inevitable tiredness caused by too many early starts and late nights (!!!) and I know that like me many delegates left with a new resolve and determination to get rid of this incompetent, heartless government and coalition members in local government too.

Thanks Ed, now lets keep up the momentum.

Ed M speaking at the Labour Party Conference

It’s been busy conference so not much time to blog

The women’s conference on Saturday was amazing. So many young women who want to be councillors or MPs. Other parties don’t come close to Labour’s vision for continuing to widen opportunities for women or put policy to support families at the heart of our policy agenda.

But Sunday onwards has been more focused on local government and planning matters. The Dragons den event was great. Councillors were pitching ideas for how to improve Council services -: we covered everything from High Streets, to apprenticeships, to community cohesion. I suspect we lacked the hard heartedness of the real dragons but most of the ideas are worthy of support. I hope Labour repeat this event at future conferences.

The Coalition see planning as a brake on development but they are wrong. We must see planning as a way to deliver growth. We need more effective community engagement and a bigger emphasis on the role planners can play in facilitating development.

I am about to speak at a Peabody event on the role Local Authorities can play in local employment. Procurement is a turn off for most people and ALL journalists but councils need to follow Birmingham’s example and use local government buying power to support SMEs encourage apprenticeships and improve employment standards and pay a living wage.

That’s it for now there’s a real buzz partly because the media are in a frenzy to get people to criticise Ed Miliband. Thankfully for us and the future they are not having much success.

Our nation’s high streets have continued to hit the headlines this summer. During the parliamentary recess I have been working with my Shadow Communities and Local Government colleagues as we look to bring forward more policies that will help to address the growing problems facing our high streets and ensure that town centres stay at the heart of our communities.

Over the past 18 months I have been working with local councils, businesses, organisations and communities to better understand the problems they are facing and the issues that matter to them. One issue that is raised frequently is the proliferation of payday lenders and betting shops. These types of businesses, in large numbers, not only have worrying social outcomes but can drives customers away from the high street and into new shopping centres.

Labour has set out how we would change the planning laws to give local communities more power to restrict the number of payday lenders on our high streets whilst encouraging diversification in other areas. We want to give councils new powers to help people to shape their own high streets, so that local people and communities can have a say about which type of shops, services and entertainment they want to see and what they need less of. This will enable each community to come up with a unique vision for the high streets and town centres that will keep people coming back despite the rise of internet shopping and out of town malls.

At the same time other colleagues are looking at how else we can minimise the impact that payday lenders have on peoples’ lives. We are looking at capping inflation rates and a code of conduct which would crack down on irresponsible lending and practices.

This is just one small areas of Labour’s policy development looking at how we could make a difference to peoples’ everyday lives if we are elected in 2015. With the General Election less than two years away, Labour is working hard to put together an effective plan and Labour’s ongoing policy review continues to shape and develop our manifesto for 2015. Labour’s Shadow Cabinet team have been engaging with party members, key stakeholders and the public to see how we can create a fairer society and build an economy that supports the interests of working people.

Figures yesterday (13/8) confirmed that the Government’s cost of living crisis is set to continue as prices rise faster than wages yet again. The Leader of the Labour Party, Ed Miliband MP, has continually called upon the Government to take action to help low and middle incomes families across the country, and I will continue to the press the Lib Dem/Tory Government on this when parliament reconvenes in September. It more important now, than ever, that we have a Government which looks out for the interests of hard working people.

Away from Westminster this has been a great summer for Durham!

The excellent Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition has attracted thousands of tourists from all over the country. I would like to encourage any of you who haven’t already visited the exhibition to do so before it finishes on 30th September. Last week also saw Durham County Cricket Club host its first ever Ashes Test Match. The match was very well attended and I am pleased that so many local supporters were able to enjoy this historic occasion.


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My thoughts on Twitter

Twitter. Some people love it, some hate and some actually have a worrying addiction to it. I thought I’d express my own thoughts on Twitter here.

The good parts

Twitter is an excellent tool to just let the world/your friends know what you’re doing right now, throw out a question or have a short discussion about virtually any topic there is. The instantness of it is really invigorating and extremely powerful!

Something I particularly like is at a event – be it a concert, conference or similar – the ability to immediately see what other people are thinking, what they’re doing and share the experience live with people that you might not have the chance to see face to face to talk with.

And, without a doubt, it is revolutionary in it how it has improved and made swift communication easier and faster between people.

The bad parts

There are a number of things I’m not too fond about Twitter; part of it is due to Twitter, part of it is, in my humble opinion, complete over usage of Twitter for something it wasn’t intended nor is optimal for.

Technical issues

I know things are getting better, but Twitter must still be one of the web services with the highest amount of errors, timeouts, sporadic downtime and similar. Frankly, I can’t believe that people put up with it. When web sites are dedicated to check if a service is down, that’s a really bad sign. E.g. Is Twitter Down?.

Character limitation

As everyone is aware of, the total amount of characters allowed for a Twitter message is 140. The reason for this limitation is that most mobile phone and systems have a limit of 160 characters, and the background to that is pretty random – read more in Why text messages are limited to 160 characters. Off the top of their heads, Twitters creators felt 20 extra characters should be sufficient for people’s user names.

Some people have got really addicted to this, stated that this is the main reason for Twitter’s success, and that they wouldn’t have it any other way. Personally, I think it’s ok at times, but truly stifling and annoying at others. One would think that this limitation would lead to people choosing their words more wisely, but, naturally with humans, the result of this is that people instead use ridiculous acronyms and various desperate ways to make things shorter. Just as with SMS, people seem to get more and more illiterate by these limitations.

From my own point of view, I hate rewriting an entire message since it was, like, two characters too long. And sure, there’s no magic limit that would suit everyone, but personally I feel that it should be removed or lifted higher. You don’t have to use every character available, just that it could be an option,

For people reading Twitter through SMS on mobile phones, just give them multiple messages. For people writing Twitter messages with SMS, just use any number of characters you have available. Simple as that.

Lack of tagging

Like I mentioned above: it’s great to read messages from a certain event or about a topic I’m interested in. The downside here is that there’s no built-in way to tag or categorize your comment, so creative people have started tagging content by adding keywords preceded by a hash (#) character. For example, if you wanted to tweet about JavaScript, you would write your message and then end it with #javascript.

They are then findable via the Twitter Search, which usually does its job but is far from optimal.

Naturally, since you already have the character limitation for messages and then use a number up for tagging, it means that by adding it to messages, the actual content will be even shorter.

Short URLs

Again, back to the character limitation. If you want to write a message and include a link, almost always you have to cut it short so it fits within 140 characters (through services like TinyURL, etc). The result of this when reading messages is that you don’t know where the URL will lead, so you need to click it to find out. Some programs have started by expanding them when you click them, but that is still not a good user experience.

And, worst of all, is that what used to be URLs between web sites before, indexed by Google and with nice semantic text, we now have non-indexed, shortened URLs collected in a place where they almost immediately lose their meaning as soon as the moment is gone.

Lack of image support

Let’s say you’d want to complement your message with an image. Most applications for Twitter support adding it, but it will never be an option to show up inline in your message, Instead you get dependent on other services, like Twitpic, where the images will be uploaded and your message will only contain links to the actual image.

Different usage

I think some people have gone overboard with their usage of Twitter. I’m glad they like it, I really am, but when it becomes the replacement for blog comments, bookmarking, all photo sharing etc, I find it way too much.

Twitter is great in the sense of fast communication and sharing things, and I’m very happy it exists. I definitely understand peoples’ needs to share and mini-blog things without setting up a web site of their own, but in that aspect, I think Tumblr is a much more versatile and useful service.

Unfortunately, I think Twitter is filled with numerous limitations people constantly try to abuse, which actually leads to making the web a less good place to use. We need the content on the web to be searchable and interconnected, with easy ways to go through any history, conversations and its likes.

So, my humble request is: use Twitter as much as you want when it makes sense and becomes usable to you and everyone interested in it. Please don’t try to make it into the ultimate tool for everything and into what it isn’t. No tool will live up to that.

Me on various services

If you think that, in any remote way, my ramblings are interested, you can follow me at:

  • I like twitter for it's simplicity. I also use Jaiku and Bloggy/cuzo for more "complex" communication since they are better in pretty much anything twitter can offer.

  • Olly says:

    The simplicity is what makes Twitter great.

    The replies feature grew out of users embracing the limitations. Hashtags are following a similar path.

    If you see the lack of space and image/media support as a serious downside, you're using the wrong tool for the job. Sounds like you're looking for Tumblr / WordPress / Facebook / Blogger…

  • Rey Bango says:

    @Robert: Seems to me that the Tweetdeck twitter app resolves many of the negatives you mentioned including the short URL & easy viewing of images. Are you currently using a client or just the web site?

  • mdmadph says:

    I like Twitter because I like seeing how angry non-twitter-users will get about it. 😛

  • Robert Nyman says:

    Absolutely, the simplicity definitely serves a need. I think we all need to consider what services serve our current need the best.

    I agree, it's the wrong tool for my own needs. But my concerns go a bit beyond what I need: I feel that with links and possible important information goes lost, since when it is on Twitter, content will sporadically be indexed by search engines, and links won't be at all.

    Meaning, if it had been in a web site I could find it later/read on it in a discussion group etc. With Twitter, lots of precious things just by by fairly unnoticed.

    Thanks for the suggestions, I do appreciate it. I use both, actually: applications and web site. I haven't used Tweetdeck, though, since I have had bad experiences previously with Adobe AIR-based apps using way too much memory.

    Also, my concerns are about my needs, but more what I mentioned just above in my reply to Olly.

    Ha ha! Generally, I agree with such a stance. 🙂

  • Robert, it seems you are missing a global chat room rather than twitter. I agree that nowadays every mobile phone can aggregate messages up to 3 sms, so twitter could do the same, but images, long urls etc etc are not important, IMO. Being a fast real-time service suitable for every kind of device, how can you think about pics inside those messages? Then we will switch to another service a la E-SMS with digital content and what's next, a global email aggregator? 😀

  • Robert Nyman says:

    Perhaps. 🙂

    I like Twitter for instantaneous communication it gives, and that it makes people share. But, what gets to me is that lots of valuable information gets lost because it's in a, sort-of, closed context with basically useless URLs.

    So, the biggest question is probably: should Twitter change to be more searchable, indexable etc, or should people adapt to spread more important information through more than one medium?

  • Jay Q says:

    Interesting points… I've been on Twitter for a couple years, but have only used it in spurts (despite having a Twitter-friendly iPhone) — I can't get addicted to it. I think you may have identified why I don't really care about it… it may be useful for people with large numbers of followers — who have things to say, but aside from comedians, I think other forums (like blogging, etc.) are better-suited. seems to be down… business opportunity for ???

  • Robert Nyman says:

    Yes, different forums for different needs…

    Also, I liked the domain joke, until I saw it actually already exists! 😀

  • Maaike says:

    I like Twitter for the conversations and because it's a great tool for staying in touch with people I don't get to meet in person very often. For me Twitter is very much about two-way communication; it's not simply a broadcasting system. For this reason I can't imagine using Twitter the way you appear to be doing: without following anybody back.

  • Robert Nyman says:

    I agree. And, most of my things are conversations, too – it's just that I don't follow anyone explicitly.

    But what I wanted to say was that in such conversations, although not mainly meant for broadcasting purposes, there could be gems of information that would be invaluable to other people too.

    But, since it's on Twitter, no one will probably ever be able to find it.

  • Maaike says:

    Hi Robert,

    That's true, but I'd rather compare Twitter to a phone conversation or a chat session, rather than, for example, a blog. You wouldn't record all of those conversations for other people either, would you?

    I guess I just don't think every bit of information on the internet needs to be searchable and preserved. The web is big enough as it is 🙂

  • Robert Nyman says:

    Absolutely. I think that my problem is rather that sure, a majority doesn't have to be indexed, but some things would be great if they were.

    So, what I'm trying to advocate here is that if you write something on Twitter that other people might gain from, please consider sharing it in a more lasting channel as well.

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Emotional Balance

The missing experience for many of us is being heard and seen. We may feel invisible, we may not feel that we have the right to be alive. This leads to unbearable loneliness and shame that may lead to shutting off our emotions or controlling ourselves so that our overwhelming emotions don't come out to others who may see us as "too much".

Controlling emotions this way leads to it's own pain and suffering. When we cut ourselves off from ourselves we feel even more alone, even more hopeless.

When we work with emotion in sessions we stay with the pain, the anger, the sadness, the discomfort. We allow space, together, for the emotions to be seen, felt, and expressed. For many, being with their own emotions may be new. For many, allowing another to witness their emotions may be new. But these are the missing experiences that we have been longing for. These are the experiences that transform our old patterns.
When we bring our awareness to our pain, we connect with more of ourselves than we knew before, and through that connection, we realize that we ARE more than we knew before.  That child part that's screaming to be heard can calm down because it has been heard, which allows our nervous system to calm and lowers anxiety.

This allows for a new way of moving through pain, a path of ease.  What was anger becomes strength.  What was hopelessness becomes choice.  What was uncomfortable becomes capacity.  From this awareness comes a different perspective on what had been painful, overwhelming, or traumatic.  From this awareness, new choices and experiences are available.

When controlling our emotions is important, we are not able to pick and choose which emotions we will control. So as we limit pain, anger and sadness, happiness and joy are similarly limited. We may then find that relationships feel empty and unsatisfying.

When our emotions feel out of control, we may not express them to others which leads to a lack of personal satisfaction and a lack of intimacy with others.

When we regain our ability to feel our full range of emotions we are able to connect with others in a new and more fulfilling way, from a place of wholeness and safety. We no longer need the other person to feel ourselves. From this place of wholeness and connection with ourselves we can meet others and have a true relationship.


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Best Christmas Gifts for 2016: Creativity & Science Overcome the Technology Wasteland

Yes, do not be afraid, there will be LED TV’s on the market this year that are so big

Avoiding a Greek Tragedy

For those who love history, or just extremely good movies

Birds Are People Too

More and more data is being collected in regards to the coexistence of humans and wildlife

Marriage & Family Therapist Holli Kenley Launches ‘Another Way Wednesday’ Podcast for Parents and Teens

  Recovery expert, family therapist, and author Holli Kenley, M.A. MFT is co-hosting a dynamic weekly podcast entitled “Another Way Wednesday Series”! The podcast series expands on Kenley’s 2015 educational novel Another Way which empowers teens with concrete strategies for making choices based on their worth and their unique levels of readiness. With an inclusive, […]

Neo-Realism of Lost Childhoods

Neo-Realism of Lost Childhoods ~ Dinesh Sharma   Child labor is a serious problem in India.  A country that is home to over 60 million child laborers, according to some NGO estimates, hopes to be a superpower. Is it possible for India to rise while almost 14% of its children are working in the streets and […]

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Adamcarson Adam Carson (born 5 February 1975) is the drummer for the band AFI. Adam, along with frontman Davey Havok, is one of the two original members left in the lineup.

Although Adam has been with AFI since day one, he also filled in as drummer for the band Tiger Army in 1996. The Tiger Army songs featuring Adam can be now found on Tiger Army's The Early Years EP. Nick 13 of Tiger Army once mentioned that Adam was a member of Influence 13 - a band formed by himself, Jade Puget (who joined AFI in 1998), Geoff Kresge (who left AFI in 1996), and two other friends. Nick also stated that "It was a weird lineup that never really took off".

He is vegetarian. Adam is a fan of baseball namely the San Francisco Giants and the San Diego Padres. Unlike two of his other bandmates, Adam doesn't follow the straight edge lifestyle and is a smoker.

While Adam is mostly known in the AFI fan base for his versatile drumming, he is also noticed for his love of pirates.Recently he has been over-associated with them, which he dislikes. He has been seen using a bass drum with the Jolly Roger printed on the front, though not recently.

Adam has been regarded by critics and musicians alike as the most technically talented member of AFI. He has been open regarding his dislike for the non-musical side of his career, namely photo-shoots, having been quoted as saying, "I'm a drummer, not a model."

He has several tattoos including one of a pirate ship that he shares with AFI bass player Hunter Burgan.

Smallwikipedialogo.png This page uses content from Wikipedia. The original article was at Adam Carson. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. As with Rock Music Wiki, the text of Wikipedia is available under the GNU Free Documentation License.


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Heavy metal band Disturbed came together through the matching of a band with a singer. Longtime friends Dan Donegan (guitar), Mike Wengren (drums), and Fuzz (bass) played together in Chicago for some time before hooking up with singer David Draiman around 1997. Draiman had grown up in a religious family against which he rebelled, being expelled from five boarding schools in his adolescence. His anger found an outlet in the thrashing sound of Disturbed, and the band built up a following on Chicago's south side before a demo tape led to their signing to Giant Records, which released their debut album, The Sickness, in March 2000. The band gained more fans and exposure playing the main stage of the 2001 Ozzfest, then breaking away to do their own self-described "victory lap" around the U.S. that fall. Also during this period, they managed to record a vicious new version of wrestler Steve Austin's theme song that was so good it managed to receive radio play, and they were one of the many bands announced to work on a high-profile Faith No More tribute album. The band stepped into the studio after stepping off of the road and began work on a new disc that would reflect their growth as a band. Feeling experimental, the group worked with producer Johnny K and mixer Andy Wallace in order to create an album that could compare to other classic metal records they admired. Amplifying their fondness for groups like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Pantera, and Soundgarden, Believe was released in the fall of 2002 and was recognized as a heavier, more varied, and ultimately superior record to their debut, ultimately reaching the top of the Billboard 200. The tour document Music as a Weapon II appeared in 2004, and the ambitious studio full-length Ten Thousand Fists in September 2005. In March 2009, Disturbed released a video for the song "The Night".[1]

Current membersEdit

  • David Draiman - Vocals
  • Dan Donegan - Guitars
  • Mike Wengren - Drums
  • John Moyer - Bass

Former MembersEdit

  • David Draiman - Vocals
  • Dan Donegan - Guitars
  • Mike Wengran - Drums
  • Steve "Fuzz" Kmak - Bass

Other songsEdit


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Time To Face Facts

I couldn’t resist this picture. It is open to multiple interpretations. One is women’s confinement and restriction. Another, how they are forced into being chained together as they seek justice. Make your own interpretation as we continue our struggles for their equality and justified power of women

Not a New Set of Issues

After decades working as a clinical psychologist I can clearly see the vulnerability of women and how often they were subjected to abuse and violation. Recent events with Judge Kananaugh and Dr. Blasey Ford brought back a significant memory.

One person stands out in my memory as illustrative of the current issues. She came to my office seeking psychotherapy for an enduring depression. We began to explore its origins and found it had endured for at least two decades. But we seemed to be getting nowhere until one day she fell utterly silent. I waited and at last she began to talk about being raped decades before. She had told no one and endured continuing pain.

Finally I could see the base of the depression. She felt that the rapist still controlled and constricted her life. Once that was out in the open, the depression began to resolve and in a matter of days she was taking back control of her life and her future.

What We Must Understand

The recent reports of what happened to Dr. Blasey Ford show how the victims are often blamed and treated badly. Of course, in the climate that has endured, women generally do not report the crime. And when they do, as we see now, they are often abused again—publicly. They may suffer death threats and find themselves and their family at risk.

A Societal Problem

It is clear we have a societal problem and a male culture problem. In society we are willing to stand by and see the victim suffer further abuse as if they are the one who is at fault. Certainly many people are stepping forward to support Dr. Blasey Ford and to state outrage at the victimization of she and her family. Many other people seem to view a woman who is so victimized and abused by rape as being despoiled. Have we no shame? It is not permissible to treat women in this fashion.

A Male Culture Problem

And then there is the matter of the male culture which too often excuses such male behavior or even supports it as a man’s right. Yes, it goes that far and demonstrates a misperception of what is appropriate and a terrible misogyny.

In general the male is generally expected to express interest in a woman and then she has to draw the line she feels the need to draw and he must withdraw. But too often he does not and aggression may be fostered by the support of his male fellows.

Seeking National Morality and Fairness

Now is the time when women are becoming empowered and are speaking out. But the opposition to them speaking out and asserting themselves goes to the intolerable and

boorish. Now we need to evaluate ourselves as a society and for men to examine their own culture. Abuse of women is not a male value to be fostered or supported.

Gaia’s Majesty-Mission Called: Women in Power by Roger B. Burt

Roger B. Burt’s Amazon home page

Creating Characters and Plots by Roger B. Burt

Stepfamilies: Professionals and Stepcouples in Partnership

Whatever Happened to Community Mental Health by Roger B. Burt

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Tag Archives: science

Cold Finger

The last time we had a really cold snap like last week I dug up something unexpected in my backyard. It was not as exciting as a human skeleton, but nonetheless interesting.  I was digging frozen turf with a sharp … Continue reading

Posted in Animalia | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Shifting Baselines

In 1608 Captain John Smith led a crew of fourteen to explore the Chesapeake Bay in a shallop brought over from England in the hold of the Susan Constant.  Leaning over the side of the small craft they could see … Continue reading

Posted in Environment | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,

New Year Musing

It’s time to reflect on the experience of blogging after a year and at the threshold of a new one. Every blogger has something they want to express or knowledge or experience they want to share. For some, a few … Continue reading

Posted in Other | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

Few people are star-struck these days—unless you mean a movie- or rock-star. How could they be when the nightly spectacle is veiled by light pollution? That expression might strike you as perverse, even as a non sequitur, for isn’t “light” … Continue reading

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Dear Jean

Dear Jean I couldn’t leave my students to say farewell. Our friends told me it was one of those miserable days before the daffodils bloom along the Cambridge College Backs: Scots would call it a “dreich day”. Pronounced correctly, everyone … Continue reading

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KATHMANDU: Tata-owned Taj Group has entered the Nepalese market, taking up management of a high-end luxury tourist resort in the well-known Chitwan National Park.

Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces has tied up with Chaudhary Group’s CG Hotels and Resorts owned by Nepalese billionaire Binod Chaudhary to start the Meghau ..

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Mero Rojgari Nepal is Nepal’s best online job portal. Our purpose is to help improve people’s lives through a better career.

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Hotter than hell: the H.E.A.T is on in Tokyo

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo
Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

By Stefan Nilsson

As Swedish melodic rockers H.E.A.T returned to Japan for the first time in six years, they gave their Japanese fans an almost two-hour long set of smoking melodic hard rock in Shibuya on 17th September.

As I enter the venue I immediately spot a few Europe band shirts in the audience – which makes a lot of sense as the two bands are not just from the same town, there are more than a few hints of Europe in H.E.A.T’s music. As could be heard on H.E.A.T’s recent “Live in London” album, H.E.A.T is a band that is a lot rockier and heavier live than in the studio.

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo
Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

This evening in Tokyo, when the band plays to a packed club in Shibuya, marks the final gig on their “Touring Down the Walls” tour that has kept the band on the road since they released their latest album “Tearing Down the Walls” in April 2014.

The band kicks off the Tokyo gig with a smoking “Point of No Return” followed by “A Shot at Redemption”. The crowd loves it and the band loves the crowd loving them. It quickly turns into a love fest and great rock party with an energetic band that gets more energy from a crowd who adores them.

H.E.A.T has great songs and they’re a tight band. But more than anything else, the have a great singer and front man. Vocalist Erik Grönwall has a great, rather unique voice with a distinctive rough edge that gives H.E.A.T a rockier tone than they had in the early years prior to Grönwall joining the band in 2010. Grönwall is not only a great vocalist, he’s also a born front man and his enthusiasm seems to rub off on the rest of the band. Together they seem to have a lot of fun on stage. Apart from a few slower songs in the set, the band keeps rocking out on the stage like there is no tomorrow. Grönwall’s only 27 years old and wasn’t even born when Joey Tempest and the boys in Europe released “The Final Countdown” in 1986. But, oh boy, he’s one of the best front men to have emerged on the Nordic rock scene in many years.

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

H.E.A.T on stage in Tokyo
Photo: Hiroyuki Yoshihama

He made himself a name as a solo artist prior to joining H.E.A.T five years ago. That Grönwall should join an established band when he was already successful on his own wasn’t an obvious choice. Neither was it an obvious move for H.E.A.T to recruit a well-known solo artist as its new singer. But that unholy union has really paid off for both the band and the vocalist. They make each other much better and as a result the world gets better rock music. Now let’s hope that they will bring some of this energy into the studio and that we will get to experience the same rockier H.E.A.T on the next studio album.

Set list – H.E.A.T – Tsutaya O-West, Shibuya, Tokyo – 17th September 2015

  1. Point of No Return
  2. A Shot at Redemption
  3. Better Off Alone
  4. Heartbreaker
  5. It’s All About Tonight
  6. Inferno
  7. The Wreckoning
  8. Tearing Down the Walls
  9. Mannequin Show
  10. Late Night Lady
  11. Beg Beg Beg
  12. All the Nights
  13. Downtown
  14. Enemy in Me
  15. Emergency

  1. Breaking the Silence
  2. There for You
  3. 1,000 Miles
  4. Living on the Run
  5. Laughing at Tomorrow
  6. Johnny B. Goode

H.E.A.T – band members

Erik Grönwall – vocals

Eric Rivers – guitars

Jona Tee – keyboards

Jimmy Jay – bass

Crash – drums /

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Kyokyugen Lug Nuts For Miata MX5 MX-5 YEARS JDM Roadster : REV9 Autosport

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The Racing Composite R40 Lug Nuts made by Project Kics of Japan are some of their best available lug nuts. Made of Chromium Molybdenum (SCM 435 Forged) material, it has SUPER strength and also very low weight. This lug nut has a specific shape that cuts the unnecessary material from it. It’s available in both Glorious Black and NEOCHRO (Rainbow) finishes. Project Kics R40 Lug Nuts should be ordered at REV9 Autosport as they provide the best service and speed we've seen so far!

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AR: CDM Chapter 51

Chapter 51 – Wen Ruyu

“What is going on?” Bai Xiaoxi asked after the sounds of engines and shooting were far away.

“A vendetta probably.” She narrowed her eyes and speculated they weren’t ordinary civilians. They might the budding new power shaping the end of the world.

“They still have the leisure to carry out a vendetta?” At a critical like that, who had the time to care about this? Everyone should have their hands busy taking care of the monsters roaming around instead of in-fighting.

Bai Ling didn’t respond. Sometimes, people’s greed and ambitions surpassed the fear of zombies. Some people might find this situation an opportunity to take care of an opponent too well defended at normal times. If they miss this time, they would lose a golden opportunity they would never come again.

Hahaha! That’s humans for you! Be it the last life or this life, Bai Ling didn’t plan to get involved in their fight for supremacy. She only wished to protect her loved ones. Since this interlude didn’t concern them longer, she laid back on her makeshift bed and rest.

Bai Xiaoxi calmed down when he saw her composure and didn’t disturb her rest.

However, the calm night was punctuated by the staggering footsteps of zombies and their roars. When their sinister presence no longer disturbed the surroundings, the sounds of shooting echoed through the streets once again. However, this time, it seemed to be approaching the hideout of Bai Ling and Bai Xiaoxi. It was without a doubt; the zombies were stirred up again by the commotion.

Bai Ling scowled. She flipped over, annoyed. She must have a good rest tonight because another three days of non-stop drive was waiting for her. “Stay here. I will go out and take a look. I’ll call or text you if there is anything!”

“Wait, I-” He wanted to say something, but Bai Ling had deftly unlocked the front door and slipped out. To lower her presence, she had crouched and shuttled through the city ruins. Her figure melted into the shadow of the night. Despite the slightly better reaction and strength from the mutation, zombies were still too stiffs and had some delay reactions which were enough to allow her to react in case of being attacked.

A bloody and purple-faced zombie jumped out of the darkness and pounced on the store door. The thick glass door shook causing Bai Xiaoxi to fall back clumsily in shock. He looked at the city outside, dimly lit by the moonlight, a hand supporting his forehead as he wondered. “I hope nothing happens to her.”

The zombies continued to gather in front of the supermarket, pounding on the glass which stopped them from reaching their food, but he didn’t pay attention to it as all his attention was concentrated on the screen of his cellphone, waiting for Bai Ling’s news.

After a sigh, he got up and unsheathed his sword. As much as he wanted to avoid the zombies, he had no choice but to clean up the front door before they destroyed their temporary abode.

After she passed through two streets, she could finally pinpoint the location of the battle.

She looked at a three-floor building which was encircled by a horde of zombies, and on the rooftop, there appeared to be people.

This place had many survivors, but the fight had attracted so many zombies that no one dares to go.

She squinted her eyes. It wasn’t in her plan to go up there. The first reason, this place was two streets away from her hideout, and second, this wasn’t her business. She was about to retreat when a burst of a maniacal laugh caught her attention.

“Wen Ruyu, I have heard of your intelligence and how many people were checkmated by your wits. But, this ends tonight. Rejoice, you have the honor to die in my hand!”

Wen Ruyu?

The name brought a familiarity to her. She seemed to have heard of it during the apocalypse.

Nearby, someone set up a tent on top of a scrapped truck. The height was enough to reach the second floor of the building. From there, one could reach the rooftop.

The choir of roars was neverending. They were more excited than ever and more joined their ranks as time passed. They tried to reach for humans on the top and clawed at the empty air, unable to comprehend the concept of distance. Such bloodlust could only mean one thing – someone was injured.

One comment on “AR: CDM Chapter 51

  1. bloodcress says:

    Thanks for the chapter! 😘

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Shop    Knowledge Center    Crop care   What is the advantage of carrying out a company audit?

What is the advantage of carrying out a company audit?

Growers and organizations in floriculture constantly seek new opportunities to improve the quality of their crops much as possible. Royal Brinkman can perform an audit on your company to provide insight into processes that might affect the quality of your flowers.
To control this quality, Royal Brinkman and Chrysal collaborate, by offering company audits. With this company audit measurements are done on several locations within your company. It follows all the processes the flowers go through from harvesting until leaving the greenhouse.

First, the temperature within the greenhouse is measured, after which the quality of the water in the harvest tanks is measured. In addition, harvesting tools such as scissors are examined and a dosage check is carried out on the pre-treatment product.

Sorting area

The sorting area is also assessed. Hygiene is extremely important here. Besides visual checks, samples are taken from the sorting machine, workbenches and scissors. Dry swaps are used to determine the state of hygiene in this area.

Cooling cell

Then, the cold stores are examined. This might vary from number and size. From one single cell to an impact cell (harvested product) and a removal cell (sorted product). Research on the water used plays an important role in this aspect. The temperature, pH and hardness as well as the presence of micro-organisms in the water are measured. The degree of contamination is measured by means of a petrifilm. In addition, the botrytis pressure is examined with of a botrytical scale. Finally, a dosage control performed here.

After the data has been collected, a report concerning the situation of your company is made. Advice on possible improvements to the chain or pre-treatment product will be given. Royal Brinkman has a broad assortment of pre-treatment products that can support you in this. If you’d like to really improve your quality, pay attention to the preliminary process as well. A good instrument/ method cannot improve a bad starting position.

Product specialistsAny questions about carrying out a company audit?
Do you have any questions about crop care, or do you want personal advice? Contact one of our product specialists, or use the form below.

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When you have a question or request personal advice, we will contact you within 24 hours on working days.

Related articles
- How to prevent single fertilizers from hardening?
- How to calculate the capacity for fertilizers?
- How to work safely with liquid fertilizers


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Donna Karan is a New York fashion ICON .
She came from a background related to fashion.
She worked as head of a design team for a number of years and launched some designs that included the very well-known ‘Seven Easy Pieces’.
She is the sole creator of the DKNY label (Donna Karen New York).
In the late 90’s her fashion campaigns with Mark Vanderloo and Esther Canadas were legendary


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Brian Davidian Joins RT Specialty

July 25, 2017, CHICAGO, IL – R-T Specialty, LLC (RT) is pleased to announce that Brian Davidian has joined RT as an Executive Vice President and is a part of the RT Casualty practice group. Brian is based in RT’s Los Angeles office.

Brian has been in the wholesale brokerage business for over twelve years and has developed relationships nationwide in construction, real estate and hospitality, among other areas. Brian has deep knowledge, thoughtful client insight and works with all sized accounts.

Remarking on Brian joining RT, Chris Houska, Western Regional Managing Director, said, “I have known Brian since his start in the insurance industry and have watched him grow. He is a remarkable talent, and we’re thrilled to have Brian join the RT team.”

Brian can be reached at:, 213-503-7845

About R-T Specialty, LLC

R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), founded in 2010, is a leading wholesale distributor of specialty insurance products and services. RT is a part of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, an international specialty insurance organization that includes wholesale brokerage and managing general underwriters designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers.

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Unfortunately Microsoft is no longer providing support or security fixes for your web browser. RT Specialty values the safety and security of its clients’ data, and as such this site requires the use of a modern web browser. To update your web browser, please see the links below. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please email or call (312) 784-6001.

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2020 hopefuls release taxes in contrast to Trump

ReutersNews Published April 15, 2019 74 Plays

Rumble / Trending News - Democratic presidential candidates Kamala Harris, Kirsten Gillibrand and Elizabeth Warren have released their tax filings ahead of Tax Day in the U.S., as they continue to push President Donald Trump to do the same. Jillian Kitchener reports.


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RCPCH EGM – The Future of the college is in your hands

The College’s Council recently decided to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting on the 30th September to allow Members the opportunity to vote on proposed changes to the College’s structure, including the proposal to create a Foundation of Child Health.

Unfortunately it is not possible to vote other than in person due to governing documents and because of the overall charity legal framework (rationale in point 8 here).

As the Hilary Cass (President of the RCPCH) has explained:

“The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss a set of proposed changes to the governance of the organisation. These changes would create a smaller Board of Trustees than we have in the current Council, and will pave the way for establishing a multi-professional Foundation of Child Health within the RCPCH. The proposals would also safeguard our roles in paediatric training, exams, and CPD through a College Council chaired by the President. The new Board of Trustees would retain a paediatric majority. The changes have been subject to an extensive consultation process (see here) and have received approval both from our existing Council and from our regulator the Privy Council.”

This is a significant phase in the Colleges history so if you are able to participate in the EGM please do register to come on the day. It is being held in tandem with a CPD Event (Child Health: the Future is in your hands). If you are able to attend we look forward to seeing you there.


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Posts tagged Endurance Training
The Training Effect

Every sound training plan should be like building blocks. Each activity in succession should build on the one before and have specific purpose. This week I thought some explanation of what the “training effect” is would be interesting to everyone.
Currently we at Running Niche have about 20 athletes on the Lydiard Method training getting ready for target races in April and May. They have concluded their Aerobic Base Building phase which started last November and early December and most have just finished their strength building phase by integrating hill training for several week. This phase prepares the gluts, legs etc to handle more intense efforts which comes in the next phase. Now they are moving into Phase 3, which is the Anaerobic Development phase. More on what this phase is about next week.
First its important to understand the “training effect” or the principle of training adaptation. A training effect is realized once an appropriate workload is applied and appropriate recovery allowed. When you tax your body with a hard effort if you don’t allow it to recover, the next hard workout you do will only break you down and eventually lead to sickness and injury. If you allow your body to recover properly then you start you next hard effort workout at a higher level of fitness and will be able to stress your body at a higher level. Each one builds on the prior to increase your fitness.
This above diagram depicts this concept of continuous improvement due to the training effect. Catabolism refers to the training stress applied such as endurance work or lactic acid tolerance workload. Anabolism refers to workouts which allow recovery such as easy aerobic runs. The single most common mistake runners make is running another hard workout before they have recovered from their prior one. If you follow this principle regardless of the training phase you are in, you will get more out of your time and effort put into training. This concept becomes particularly important during the Anaerobic phase of the Lydiard Method where you begin to train your body to get used to the very uncomfortable state of oxygen deficit.
Remember, all workouts on the Lydiard Method have a specific purpose and are sequenced accordingly to maximize the “training effect”. If you would like to learn more about the science and performance-based Lydiard Method, stop by the store. We are always happy to talk about your running!

Bob Dyer (Co-owner, Running Niche)
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Don't Run Hard Until You Can Run Easy

It’s been VERY cold here in St. Louis. On these tough cold days, you just can't go very fast. So, you go very easy. Arthur Lydiard used to say; "We all know our limitations. You keep within your limitations and you will improve..." And you WILL improve.

Those of you who might be thinking: "Wow, my Aerobic run pace on this Lydiard Plan through the Running Wizard seems so slow! How can I expect to run my target race at the target race pace?"

Your pace will naturally quicken without extra effort. Trust the program and keep it to the prescribed effort/pace especially when the weather is harsh. This is the time to grow your “roots” underground.

Also remember that each workout has a purpose in the Lydiard Method. In the case of your long Aerobic runs the purpose is developing endurance and efficiency of oxygen utilization at the cellular level. You should easily be able to pass the “talk test” on these runs, its not about pace but time on your feet.

Additionally, on the Lydiard plan, the day prior to your long Aerobic run, typically a Saturday, the workout is shorter but faster, usually a “out and back” at distances of 3-10 miles depending on your target race distance. This run is done at a faster pace overall, but focusing on running comfortably at this faster pace and coming back in your second half of the workout about 10% faster. Then of course Sunday is your long Aerobic recovery run.

Remember, all workouts on the Lydiard Method have a specific purpose and are sequenced accordingly to maximize the “training effect”. More on this one next week. Stop by to talk training anytime!


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Posts tagged Lydiard Training Method
The Role of Intervals in Marathon Training and Yasso 800’s

Every sound training plan has building blocks whereby each activity in succession should build on the one before with specific purpose. Anaerobic development, achieved through higher intensity, shorter duration interval sessions is an important part of your preparation for a half or full marathon, at the right time.

Phase 3 of the Lydiard pyramid, the Anaerobic Development phase, comes after a strong aerobic base has been built and preparation completed via the strength building hill training phase. Keep in mind that the half and full marathon distances are 98% aerobically based. Meaning if one hasn’t built a strong aerobic engine the benefits of which are ability to deliver oxygen to muscles, increased heart stroke volume, lowered resting pulse and higher working heart rate maintenance, through several weeks of slower, longer running, then you need to spend more time achieving this rather than moving into anaerobic development.

In the context of endurance training intervals are not “speed” training but are used for anaerobic development. They are bouts of work with a recovery generally equal to or shorter than the work bout. Lydiard said “there is a time for repetitions to develop anaerobically and depending on target race distance, sprint drills to develop fine speed. You have to organize repetitions and sprint drills at the right time so you can peak on your target day”.

For most marathoners/half marathoners doing intervals at above anaerobic threshold with enough recovery to repeat allowing the body to get used to high levels of acidosis is recommended. They should be prolonged harder work, not shorter durations. Distances of ¾ mile, mile, 1.5 miles and 2 miles are desirable. Under Lydiard these durations are done at ¼, ½ or ¾ effort, depending upon if the runner is early in the anaerobic phase or later in the phase. As an example, we have an athlete with capability of running a 3-hour marathon, about 7-minute pace per mile. During the interval phase these distances would be 7000 meters combined made up of several ¾ mile to mile intervals working from 6:15 pace down to 5:30 pace for each, with just enough rest to lower heart rate and get prepared for the next bout of work. Lydiard described these sessions as “tiring, exacting work”, but it gets the body used to being uncomfortable at faster sustained paces.

The picture below is a good example from my old training log as I was in the anaerobic phase preparing for a full marathon:

Bob Dyer Example Lydiard Training Log.JPG

In this example after a good warmup, I did 4x 1-mile intervals at about ½ to ¾ effort as I was later on in this phase, also rested a bit between with slower pace. Needless to say the next day was a recovery aerobic run.

Its key to remember that for longer distances, interval sessions should be done at distances longer than ¾ mile and stretch to up to 2 miles at ¼, ½ or ¾ effort depending on where one is during the training program. A final thought about the commonly implemented “Yasso 800”. First the idea that doing 10 repeat 800 meter runs at specific paces is reflective of your marathon target ie 3:00 minute 800 = 3:00 hour marathon, with equal rest, is not predictive of future race times, it is not scientifically validated.

Secondly it is found in the exercise physiology literature that for runners training for longer distances like the marathon that interval work is important but has to be done in proper sequence and distances building on a strong aerobic base and hill strength training. Doing them any earlier in the cycle can cause injuries and illness. If you feel you must do track or other high intensity workouts save them for a phase of training where you are ready for it, not early on. If you want to achieve your long race goals in the half or full marathon you need to work on your endurance, after all these long distances are 98%+ aerobic!

If you would like to learn more about the science and performance-based Lydiard Method, stop by the store. We are always happy to talk about your running!

Bob Dyer (Co-owner, Running Niche)
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

The Training Effect

Every sound training plan should be like building blocks. Each activity in succession should build on the one before and have specific purpose. This week I thought some explanation of what the “training effect” is would be interesting to everyone.
Currently we at Running Niche have about 20 athletes on the Lydiard Method training getting ready for target races in April and May. They have concluded their Aerobic Base Building phase which started last November and early December and most have just finished their strength building phase by integrating hill training for several week. This phase prepares the gluts, legs etc to handle more intense efforts which comes in the next phase. Now they are moving into Phase 3, which is the Anaerobic Development phase. More on what this phase is about next week.
First its important to understand the “training effect” or the principle of training adaptation. A training effect is realized once an appropriate workload is applied and appropriate recovery allowed. When you tax your body with a hard effort if you don’t allow it to recover, the next hard workout you do will only break you down and eventually lead to sickness and injury. If you allow your body to recover properly then you start you next hard effort workout at a higher level of fitness and will be able to stress your body at a higher level. Each one builds on the prior to increase your fitness.
This above diagram depicts this concept of continuous improvement due to the training effect. Catabolism refers to the training stress applied such as endurance work or lactic acid tolerance workload. Anabolism refers to workouts which allow recovery such as easy aerobic runs. The single most common mistake runners make is running another hard workout before they have recovered from their prior one. If you follow this principle regardless of the training phase you are in, you will get more out of your time and effort put into training. This concept becomes particularly important during the Anaerobic phase of the Lydiard Method where you begin to train your body to get used to the very uncomfortable state of oxygen deficit.
Remember, all workouts on the Lydiard Method have a specific purpose and are sequenced accordingly to maximize the “training effect”. If you would like to learn more about the science and performance-based Lydiard Method, stop by the store. We are always happy to talk about your running!

Bob Dyer (Co-owner, Running Niche)
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Don't Run Hard Until You Can Run Easy

It’s been VERY cold here in St. Louis. On these tough cold days, you just can't go very fast. So, you go very easy. Arthur Lydiard used to say; "We all know our limitations. You keep within your limitations and you will improve..." And you WILL improve.

Those of you who might be thinking: "Wow, my Aerobic run pace on this Lydiard Plan through the Running Wizard seems so slow! How can I expect to run my target race at the target race pace?"

Your pace will naturally quicken without extra effort. Trust the program and keep it to the prescribed effort/pace especially when the weather is harsh. This is the time to grow your “roots” underground.

Also remember that each workout has a purpose in the Lydiard Method. In the case of your long Aerobic runs the purpose is developing endurance and efficiency of oxygen utilization at the cellular level. You should easily be able to pass the “talk test” on these runs, its not about pace but time on your feet.

Additionally, on the Lydiard plan, the day prior to your long Aerobic run, typically a Saturday, the workout is shorter but faster, usually a “out and back” at distances of 3-10 miles depending on your target race distance. This run is done at a faster pace overall, but focusing on running comfortably at this faster pace and coming back in your second half of the workout about 10% faster. Then of course Sunday is your long Aerobic recovery run.

Remember, all workouts on the Lydiard Method have a specific purpose and are sequenced accordingly to maximize the “training effect”. More on this one next week. Stop by to talk training anytime!


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Russia Could Destroy the Ukrainian Government with This Political Gambit

This post first appeared on Russia Insider

Four years ago far-right groups in Ukraine were in open opposition to Petro Poroshenko using anti-Semitic slurs to attack him. Now, of course, Poroshenko is president and his Prime Minister - low and behold - is Jewish. Yet the far-right is allied with this government. Confused? Don’t be.

Ukrainian nationalists, especially far-right extremists, have always hated Russians, Poles and Jews. In order to prevent an anti-Semitic backlash in his country, Poroshenko managed to get these nationalists to direct their hatred primarily towards Russians who make up the largest non-Ukrainian minority in the country. He accomplished this with heavy-handed anti-Russian propaganda communicated through the media both domestically and via the West.

A WW2 monument in Kiev

In order to silence the ethnic Russians, a barbaric attack was unleashed in May 2014 on peaceful protesters in Odessa opposed to the February coup d’etat. The horrific crime in which dozens were burnt alive- and cheered on by a crazed mob - was largely ignored in the West.

This carefully orchestrated attack was meant to force anti-Fascist Russians into submission through the use of terror. It worked, except in the East and particularly Novorossiya. The ethnic Russians there rose up and declared their opposition to the new government. Civil War followed. And Poroshenko loved it. The war in Novorossiya has given him propaganda points and allows him to portray Russia as the enemy for supporting “anti-Ukrainian” separatists. He is perceived in the West as having the “moral high-ground”.

The Political Chess Game

In chess there is a move called “the gambit”. This consists of sacrificing a piece on the board with the hope of achieving a resulting advantageous position and winning the match. If Putin were to sacrifice Novorossiya and convince the leaders there to end their separatist campaign swearing loyalty to the government in Kiev, he would defeat Poroshenko. A risky move no doubt, but if successful it would destroy the current Ukrainian government. Putin could then offer an olive branch to Kiev with promises of gas and oil deliveries at a reduced price.

These gestures would be welcomed by the international community and Kiev would no longer be able to portray Russia as an aggressor. If Poroshenko were to reject this offer he would lose his “moral high-ground”, and perhaps even lose the support of the far-right. Without the Russian bogey man to point a finger at, the extremists might begin to look elsewhere for enemies – the Jews and Poles. Things could turn ugly very fast. Violence perpetrated towards Poles or Jews would seriously damage relations with the West. Any attempt by Poroshenko to squash the far-right would be suicidal, however.

There are still sections of the Ukrainian population who want good relations with Russia. Manufacturers, commodity traders and some politicians know full-well that the anti-Russian campaign has caused tremendous economic harm. These people are just waiting and hoping for some thaw in the frosty relations so that Ukraine can recover from its current malaise.

Without this political gambit, the thaw will never happen and the current conflict may last for decades resulting in a “stalemate”. If Putin were to make this bold move now, however, the game would be over. How do you say “checkmate” in Ukrainian?

This post first appeared on Russia Insider

Anyone is free to republish, copy, and redistribute the text in this content (but not the images or videos) in any medium or format, with the right to remix, transform, and build upon it, even commercially, as long as they provide a backlink and credit to Russia Insider. It is not necessary to notify Russia Insider. Licensed Creative Commons

Our commenting rules: You can say pretty much anything except the F word. If you are abusive, obscene, or a paid troll, we will ban you. Full statement from the Editor, Charles Bausman.


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The full property team meets formally on a regular basis, to discuss the major transactions occurring on all properties. This serves only to reinforce the depth of experience and quality of service provided to management clients.

In summary, the mix of skills and experience we can offer is unique. We work as a cohesive team where all members support and complement each other.  There is always someone available within the company to assist our clients.

Currently we handle the leasing and management of approximately 400 individual tenancies within our total portfolio with the emphasis being on the utmost professionalism, the highest level of personal client contact and protection of the client’s interests above all else.

Commercial, Retail & Industrial Leasing

The secret to successful leasing strategies lies in the selection of the target tenant audience for a particular property and then using a creative, cost efficient approach to interest the selected audience in the property available for Lease.  Ryder Commercial constantly monitors the changing relativities between supply and demand for space and has access to up to the minute information on the market trends.  This information is often vital in developing successful marketing strategies for both retail and commercial office space. Ryder Commercial leasing boards are a familiar sight in Melbourne.

Commercial, Retail & Industrial Sales

Ryder Commercial will carefully and objectively assess the sales potential of all investment property and provide recommendations tailored to individual needs.  Each sales instruction is handled by a director of the company, practised in the gentle art of negotiating the highest price/optimum terms for each client. Computerised mailing lists of both local and offshore investors keep us in touch with the market.

It is also worth noting in the past under Mark Ryder’s direction a campaign co-ordinated by him at Killen Thomas was awarded ‘The Age REIV Award’ for the best sales marketing campaign in Victoria for advertising campaigns between $10-30,000 for his sales campaign for 1113-1121 High Street Armadale. This award was judged by competing agent peers and this category was the most competitive with over 40 other entries by other major commercial and industrial agencies.


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Name: Space Camp I
Date(s): 8/5, 8/6, 8/7, 8/8, 8/9
Time: 9:00a - 3:00p
Ages Allowed: 9 - 11
Seats Remaining: 12
Ever since man first looked up to the skies, we have been interested in the stars. Tour the universe as you move from the planets and moons of our solar system, then extend outward to the stars in the Milky Way. Pack your bags for a trip to the Red Planet! What do you need to survive in space? Find out what Curiosity has taught us about the Red Planet and learn the challenges of exploring a planet with a rover.
Please log in to complete your purchase.


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Let’s Build An App!!

Salesforce is one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies, famous for its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system built on cloud computing technology.

Salesforce for Youth is a platform to introduce Salesforce to the future generation of engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs.

“Our mission is to bring the latest and most innovative technology to the youth during a crucial time in their lives and help them dream bigger!”

Let’s Do Some Coding!!

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S+L BLOG: Sr. Marie Paul Curley

What does the Church teach about vampires? This week, Deacon Pedro talks with Eleanor Bourg Nicholson about her new novel, A Bloody Habit - and much more! ...read more
How much impact has Pope Francis had on the world? This week, producer Sebastian Gomes tells us about the new S+L production The Francis Impact. ...read more
How do you make faith central to your life? This week, Libby Slater tells us about the new Family Theater Productions web-series Catholic Central. Sr. Marie-Paul Curley has the Windows to the Soul to a new romantic comedy; Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB offers a reflection for the 5th Sunday in Easter and we meet singing/songwriting ...read more
Join us for a special Easter edition of the SLHour: Mark Matthews tells us what he’s learned from Sci-Fi and Sr. Marie Paul Curley has an Easter Windows to the Soul also, Emilie gives us the highlights of the pre-synod on youth and Gillian Kantor tells us about her new documentary A Woman’s Voice; We ...read more
This week on a special edition of the SLHour we focus on movies. Our film expert, Sr. Marie Paul Curley has been producing Windows to the Soul segments for years now and it’s time to share some of that wisdom. This week we learn a little bit of what Sr. Marie Paul has to say ...read more
Join us for a special Christmas edition of the SLHOUR with all our contributors: Emilie and Billy team up for a special Christmasey Church for Dummies; Gillian learns a Christmas lesson from all her kids; Hollywood teaches Mark something about Christmas and Sr. Marie-Paul Curley finds several window to the soul to a Christmas classic, ...read more


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S+L BLOG: Summer

Is it too late to offer a Catholic summer playlist? The answer is no. It’s never too late. Besides, the weather has not been nearly hot enough to consider the past month “summer”. Our picnic days are far from being over. So here’s your opportunity to add some wholesome tunes – not boring! – to ...read more
Today I’m thinking about summer… ahh summer… I remember very clearly, as if it was yesterday, the last day of school before the summer break – not sure why we even went to school that day, ’cause it was one big party. We would celebrate the end of the school year and then… hello freedom! ...read more


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S+L BLOG: World Day of Peace

In his Angelus address on the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God – which is also observed as World Day of Peace – Pope Francis called on us “to fix our gaze of faith and of love on the Mother of Jesus.” Below, please find the complete text of Pope Francis’ address at the ...read more
Today on Perspectives, Pope Francis’ weekly general audience, his message for the 2015 World Day of Peace and the CCCB’s Christmas message. ...read more


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Evidence File No. 35630

Day 5

I started this journal with ‘Day 5’ because it feels like almost a week since I washed up here.

A month ago, I boarded the yacht for the adventure of a life time.  Breaking the yacht on the rocks was unexpected.  Waking up with my face buried in the sand at the break of dawn was a miracle. Continue reading

Tyron’s Wildest Dream

Copyright – Douglas M. MacIlroy

Copyright – Douglas M. MacIlroy

Tyron smacked his lips happily.  The perfect title hit him after two empty hours.  ‘Seven mountains in seven years’, his answer to the challenge: ‘Wildest dreams’.

His finger hovered for a hesitating second longer.  Then, click; the post was published. Continue reading

The Rendezvous

I met him once on my way to work.  He was as expected; tall and thin, his figure bent by age, leaning on a scythe.   His face was hidden by the black cloak, greening with age.

‘You can’t have come for me!’ I said.  It wasn’t a question.

‘And why not?’ His was.

‘Because I’m too young.  I still have much to do!’

‘Like what?’

I stopped and thought for a while.  ‘Well, I’m on my way to work.  Can’t just leave without notice.  How would my boss cope?’

He paused and didn’t speak for a long while.

‘Have it your way then.  I’ll take you later.’

He was waiting for me again on my way from work to home.

Continue reading

The Knowing Arch

When leaves turn gold,

Copyright -Jennifer Pendergast

I know that their time has come.

With roses for cheeks

And chirping laughter,

I watch them enter in loud hordes.

The sky grows dark,

Eclipsed by pearly clouds.

Fragile branches sag under heavy ice;

Bags droop under tired, learned eyes.

I watch as hordes become silent clusters.

Snow melts. Unveils

Emerald leaves no longer burdened.

With roses back on their cheeks,

Straight backs, relieved shoulders,

I watch as one by one they leave, triumphant.

Continue reading

The Land of Opportunities

‘Your mama is so fat, that—’
A long, low booing resonated from the audience.
‘Okay! okay…Have you ever heard of the koi who was coy with his wife?’
‘Get off the stage!’
‘No, no wait…Okay; man walks in a bar—‘
Whizz. Glass shattered on the stage.
Damian ran out of the theatre for his life. He sat in the dark alley next to the backstage door analyzing the scribbled list in front of him.
‘Garbage Collector’ was next.
A man’s voice startled him; ‘How much for half an hour?’
Damian froze for a second, then shrugged. No reason ‘Male Prostitute’ shouldn’t be on that list.

Copyright – Douglas M. MacIlroy

For Trifecta and Friday Fictioneers. Two in one; economizing in this economy.  The word given by Trifecta is: BOO – 3 (verb) to show dislike or disapproval of someone or something by shouting “Boo” slowly. Friday Fictioneers, on  the other hand, gave us the lovely picture above.

Under the Carob Tree

There were once three men who used to sit on the bench shaded by the carob tree at the far corner of the square.  They were much younger than the tree, albeit as wrinkly and bent by age as its bark.

Everyday their vigil began right after the seven-thirty mass. They sipped English tea in a tall glass at eight-thirty, then bread and cheese at ten. The bench under the carob tree would be empty between twelve and two; which was precisely the span  of time it took the sun to graze the wooden bench before its rays were eclipsed by the second house on the left. Continue reading


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...Black Mesa Winery Tastings & Tours
black mesa winery logo

Enjoy our Wines, Hard Cider, Petroglyphs & Labyrinth! A short 45 minute drive to exactly mid-way between Santa Fe and Taos, Black Mesa Winery & Cider Press, sits alongside the Rio Grande on Highway 68. For more than 20 years, the vineyard, winery and tasting room have been a welcome stop for visitors. Stop in and taste our award-winning wines. We're open 7 days a week. We offer tours to groups or individuals with 24 hours advance notice. REMEMBER TO MENTION: Santa Fe Selection.

Phone: (505) 852-2820

Website: http://blackmesawinery.com/

Address: 1502 Highway 68 - Mile Marker 15 Velarde, New Mexico 87582  MAP

Mon - Sat: 11am - 7pm.

Sun: Noon - 6pm.

REMEMBER TO MENTION: Santa Fe Selection. Thank you!

black mesa winery pic1
black mesa winery pic2
black mesa winery pic3
Owner Jerry Burd and Winemaker Karl Johnson

Petroglyphs & Labyrinth are free to the public. Petroglyph images range from 100 years to 1500 years old.  Each rock is marked by a small kokopeli figure. There is a white quartz rock on top of each petroglyph rock. It can be walked in about 15 minutes. It also goes by the Montepulciano and the Pinot Grigio vineyards.

Labyrinth is located behind the winery and along part of the Petroglyph Trail. It can be walked in 15 minutes or longer, depending on the person and their thoughts along the way.

Black Mesa produces a variety of grape, including Pinot Grigio, Syrah, Montepulciano, and Riesling. Owner Jerry Burd says of the extensive range, "I can't make up my mind. I have a palate that enjoys many different styles of wines and so do our customers."

Now offering their authentically Northern New Mexican Hard Cider aptly named "Bite Me." Semi-dry, or semi-sweet, join us in raising a glass of this awesome new favorite!

DAILY TASTINGS: $8 pp and you keep your signature 12oz Black Mesa wine glass.

WINERY TOURS: Please call ahead and give us at least 24 hours notice. Tour rate is $15pp, and includes winery tour, tasting, Black Mesa wine glass, and 10% off any purchase on day of tour. Please call to schedule.

Throughout our 20+ years, we have insisted on using only the finest New Mexico grapes, carefully nurturing them through the fermentation process with the utmost care, again using more traditional than technological means. Our time-honored technique is rare in the wine world today, typically only found in luxury bottlings."

See you soon!...And Cheers!


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Read Regional: Hexham, Northumberland

Hexham Book Festival kicked off on Thursday and my Creative Writing workshop was the first event in the programme. Twelve keen writers had signed up for the session in the lovely Queen’s Hall, which is also home to Hexham library. In the workshop we explored ways of creating and developing characters, drawing on  a selection of […]

Read Regional: Hull

This week The Companion‘s Read Regional visits started in Hull.  I arrived early as it’s years since I’ve been to the city and I wanted to have an explore. My wander around the streets took in the stunning architecture of buildings such as the Guildhall, Town Hall and Minster and lots of seafaring imagery including […]

Read Regional: Kirkby, Merseyside

Another sunny Read Regional day. I was greeted by birdsong as I stepped off the train at Kirkby in Knowsley and by these glorious Storytelling Thrones when I reached the library. As well as the above Golden Eagle and American Eagle there is also a lovely white Osprey. A sign next to one of the […]

Read Regional: Wideopen, North Tyneside

I was North East bound again this week for my Read Regional author talk at Wideopen, Library in North Tyneside. Train to Newcastle (on which I started reading ‘The Bricks that Built the Houses’ by Kate Tempest, which I need to finish in time for Book Group the following evening) and then a short bus […]

Read Regional: King Cross, Halifax

My second date on my Read Regional tour was close to home at King Cross Library in Halifax. It’s a lovely library and I received a very warm welcome from the librarians and other staff. Halifax was a centre of the cloth trade from the 16th to the 18th centuries, and the town is steeped […]