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Tyler Perry is clarifying his interaction with Will Smith after the actor took to the stage and slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars after the comedian made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinket-Smith. Some thought it looked like Perry was comforting Smith in the wake of the slap, which didnt sit well with some, but hes revealing that wasnt the case at all.

During a chat with Gayle King as a part of the Tribeca Film Festivals Directors Series in New York City, per People, Perry addressed his actions with Will Smith following the slap. While it appeared as if he was comforting him, he says he was trying to deescalate the situation:

Theres a difference between comforting and deescalating, thats No.1. And I left early to get to Chris to make sure he was okay. Being friends with both of them has been very difficult.

Perry gives Chris Rock all the credit for being the biggest person in the situation and that the incident was especially painful for him. That being said, he also said that it was painful for Smith, who was clearly triggered and acted extremely out of character:

Trust me, as painful as it was for all of us in the room, it was as painful for Chris, who was a pure champion for the way he handled it. But I want you to understand that some happened that was extremely painful for [Will] as well. That is no excuse. He was completely wrong for what he did. But something triggered him that is so out of everything he is.

The director and actor also added some clarity about how Will Smith was feeling right after everything happened. He says when he went over to him, the actor was clearly devastated and he couldnt believe that he had just done what he did:

And Ill tell you, when we walked over to him, he was devastated. He couldnt believe what happened. He couldnt believe he did it. Im looking at this man in his eyes going, What are you doing? This is your night. And to get all the way to this moment, winning an Oscar, that was one of the crowning moments of his career that he wanted so desperately, and to have something like that happen

I can now see how Perry was deescalating the situation and not trying to comfort Will Smith, he was the aggressor. Like everyone in that room, I dont think Perry could believe that Will Smith would do something like that so was just trying to calm everything down, in case things got worse. Being friends with both men, Im sure this was no easy position for Perry to be in.

What are YOUR thoughts on Tyler Perrys actions regarding Will Smith and Chris Rock on Oscar night after the slap?

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Tyler Perry says he was not comforting Will Smith after Oscar slap - JoBlo.com

There are already many summer trends circulating the fashion scene. A great way to indulge and utilize these looks is to wear them in the color that aligns with your zodiac sign. While they may not be your favorite color per say, the elements of it relate to your unique astrological DNA.

For instance, Aries are warriors who wear red because its aggressive and dominant. Whereas shades of yellow are ideal for Gemini, who is a communicative sign, as this color helps in self-expression.

Wearing your zodiac signs signature color is more of an enhancer than anything else. Itll boost your positive qualities and show your vibe. This means that Aries can assert their power and bravado by wearing red. Gemini can think and talk clearly by adding yellow to their wardrobe.

So, you can build the perfect summer outfit by finding the perfect trend for your sign while incorporating your power color to embrace your flair this season.

Amalfi Coast dressing is all about passion especially when in vibrant prints of red (think of following the styling of fellow Aries Kourtney Kardashian Barkers wedding in Italy for inspiration). Try roses, polka dots, hearts in the color of desire which also happens to be Aries power color. Itll make Aries extra creative and full of life during the hot summer days.

Cut-out garments are one of the hottest summer trends right now and are in high demand in Tauruss signature color, green (one of the colors that Venus, the Bulls planetary ruler loves). An emerald or grassy shade of green will bring abundance, joy, and decadence to the world of the earth sign, while letting Taurus take on trendy silhouettes.

Twin star Gemini is known to wear similar clothes with their better half it is just that their better half happens to be themselves or the lesser seen side of their personality. A matching two piece monochrome or print set in yellow (the color that resonates the most with Gemini) will be a fun and amazing look for the air sign to wear this summer.

Regency core inspired by our favorite TV shows Bridgerton and The Great. Pastel florals, whimsical satin fabrics, or threads of silver worked through the fabric are ideal for the fairy tale that Cancer has spun for themselves.

There truly is nothing more regal than liquid metal clothing (like chain metal tops or clothing in shiny metallics). Golden hues that match the fur of the almighty lion will allow Leo to embrace their role as the ruler and trendsetter they were born to be. Plus, the sunny hue will add strength and tenacity to the spirited vibe of the fearless and fiery lion.

Varsity chic is a great look for Virgo this summer. Not only does it align with their aesthetic for more refined clothes without the added flash, but it also brings out their sophisticated and intellectual side. A track jacket with patches, pleated cheerleading skirts, and cardigans with initials on it in hues of brown like beige will blend with any and every item in Virgos pristine wardrobe.

Barbie core may be a newer trend but Libra wont mind dressing in shades of pink 24/7. After all, pink is one of the colors aligned with their planetary ruler, Venus, because it adds creativity and love to their lives. Libra doesnt have to dress like a Barbie; however, they will want to wear a dash of bright pink since its this seasons hottest color.

Scorpio can channel their inner wild child by wearing the pop-punk trend this season in the transformative and protective color black. Lace bustiers, pleather shorts, shiny combat platform shoes, and chokers with studs is the vibe that Scorpio is aiming for all year long it just happens to be one of the baddest and most amazing ways that they can channel their attitude towards now.

Being that Sagittarius is one of the most honest and transparent signs, they will opt to wear sheer articles of clothes, which is one this seasons biggest trends. The archer leaves nothing to the imagination, as does mesh. Any article of sheerness in all shades of purple will give the fire sign luck, bravery, and valor when they need it the most.

The Coastal Grandmother look is perfect for Capricorn, as the sign can be like a parental figure at any age due to their authoritative nature and demeanor. Itll be the perfect sentiment for them to calmly relax and reflect at the beach or in the company of loved ones especially in shades of heather that aligns with their power color, which is gray.

Aquarius likes to mix and match vintage items with modern looks. Therefore, a psychedelic retro print from the 1960s and 1970s in shades of their signature color light blue is the ideal vibe for the water-bearer to rock all season long. No matter if its a bikini top or shorts Aquarius will love this look and act out the part of the mod pixie.

Netted or crochet knits in sea foam green make Pisces lean into their truest nature as a free spirit. The sea-witch will feel at home in this light and airy aesthetic, as it allows them to swim in the sea which is their home away from home. These little fishies will feel cool and chic throughout the season by throwing on a crochet top or dress.

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The Hottest Summer Trends of 2022 by Zodiac Sign - Teen Vogue

WORCESTER For the second time in four years, and the second time in three seasons, Taunton baseball is headed to the Division I championship game.

The No. 2 Tigers took down No. 3 Catholic Memorial 8-4 Tuesday in a Final Four matchup at Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field to book their spot in the title game.

I told the guys weve got to score one run an inning and if we can score at least seven runs, I like our chances, Taunton coach Blair Bourque said. Our pitching staff did a great job today throwing strikes and we made a lot of defensive plays and just execution with guys in scoring position coming up big.

The Tigers combined for eight runs on 11 hits, four walks and an error whilebatting around in the second inning, with seven of the batters stepping up to the plate in the inning with two outs on the board.

Theyshowed what theyre capable of offensively, Bourque said.That was a great pitcher and we put a lot of quality at-bats together. I was really proud of what they did and what theyve done so far.

The Tigers also got quality appearances out of three of their top pitchers. StarterShawn Cali earned the win, going two innings giving up two runs on three hits and a walk while striking out two. Ryan MacDougall tossed three full innings of relief, giving up two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out one and Colin Botelho closed it out strong as he went two shutout innings giving up a hit and a walk while striking out four.

I cant say enough about the pitching staff to come in with the way they were swinging it, Bourque said. We knew it was going to be a tough game and a tough battle and they were up for the task and Im really proud of what theyve accomplished so far.

Vote:Whois the Taunton Daily Gazette Player of the Week for June 6-12

For Taunton, pitching has really been an all around team effort this year between a mix of different pitchers who each bring something different to the mound.

Weve kind of rode a lot of guys this year in terms of pitching and I dont think we really have that true ace that some other teams that are this deep have, but what we do have is a lot of competitors, guys that can compete on the mound and throw strikes and trust our defense and they showed what they can do today, Bourque said.

The Tigers, playing as the home team due to their higher seed, struck first in the bottom of the first as Braden Sullivan hit a single up the middle before coming home on a MacDougall double to the right center gap. Back to back singles loaded the bases, alowingMacDougallcame home on a groundout to third by Colby DeCouta to make it 2-0.

I think with that hit in the first we really set the pace of the game, so I think that was really big for all of our guys, including me, MacDougall said.It gave me a confidence boost and just set the tone of the game.

The Knights were ready to fight, however, and wasted little time responding in the top of the second. Gabe Malaret led off the inning with a single before John Gannon and Nolan Mullen both got out. Scott Longo walked, then a single to shallow left by Brett Mulligan drove in Malaret and a second single to right by Conor Coulter brought home Longo to bring CM back even at 2-2.

Looking to respond back just as fast, Evan Cali hit a first pitch single to start off the bottom of the second but was thrown out at second while trying to stretch it to a double by Coulter in center. A strikeout by Andrew Cali put the Tigers down two outs and it looked like the game was set to be a back and forth battle.

Then suddenly, momentum shifted.

Anerror by shortstop Nick DiRito saw Brayden Cali get on, which was followed up by an infield single from Sullivan and then a single to right by MacDougall to drive home Brayden Cali and give the lead back to Taunton. A single by Dawson Bruce and a walk to AJ Lewis followed to load the bases, and a walk to DeCouta saw MacDougall come home to make it 5-2.

MacDougall replaced Shawn Cali on the mound to start the third but three straight singles by Tom Goonan, Curt Boyd and Malaret saw the latter drive in Liam Lawn, pinch running for Goonan, to make it 5-3. A double steal on the next at bat saw Malaret take second while Boyd took advantage of the throw to come home and bring the Knights back within one.

That was the closest CM would come again to the Tigers however, as MacDougall adjusted his approach and retired six of the last seven batters he faced.

The first inning was tough but then I settled in, MacDougall said. I was throwing way too many fastballs but then I settled in and started throwing off-speed changeups and curveballs and they were working, so Im glad I settled in.

For Bourque, MacDougall keeping the opponent at bay while also scoring some runs of his own has become par for the course.

MacDougalls been our rock all year, both offensively and defensively, Bourque said.Hes the (Hockomock League) MVP for a reason. We trust him and he throws strikes. He had a couple big hits, a couple RBIs there that got us going early, so hes a big boy and he puts us on his back sometimes and he carried us today.

Tauntonadded another run in the top of the fifth as Evan Cali hit a triple to the deep right corner then came on a throwing error by the second baseman Mullen, who was acting as they cutoff man. They alsoplated two more runs in the sixth as Brayden Cali led the inning off with a single and MacDougall was intentionally walked, then pinch ran for by Jared Spencer, setting upBryce to hit a triple to the deep left corner and drive in both, solidifying the Tigers advantage with a 8-4 lead.

Botelho pitched the last two innings for Taunton and was lights out, retiring six of the eight batters he faced, three of which came after allowing a walk and a double to start the seventh as the Tigers booked their chance to play for the state title.

For Bourque, one of the biggest assets his team has is their consistent ability to come through in the clutch combined with a never give up attitude.

They compete, Bourque said. Theyve competed from an early age and theyre used to competing from an early age.

Its those lessons instilled early by the youth baseball coaches in Taunton that Bourque really credits for the continued success of the program.

I think its a testament to the program and then the youth program and developing players from an early age and making sure theyre ready when they come to us, so all the youth coaches do a great job and Im kind of just taking the torch and going with it, but they go really hard, Bourque said. Its all them, they deserve all the credit.

'A lot to be proud of': Despite disappointing end, D-R baseball happy they made Final Four

Taunton now heads to the state championship game where they'll face a very familiar foe in Hockomock League rivals Franklin, the top seed in Division I who the Tigers beat 7-5 at home in their first outing at home in April but fell 7-1 on the road in May. The Panthers beat No. 4 Shrewsbury 4-3to book their spot in the title bout.

The championship game is set to be played Saturday, at 6 p.m., at LeLacheur Park in Lowell, home to the Div. 1UMass Lowell River Hawks college baseball team.

Its going to be tough, Bourque said. Its not going to be easy. Were going to have to play sound defensively, were going to need to make sure we make our pitches. Its a good team over there, theyre well coached and we know were going to be in for a battle.

For MacDougall, the only remaining player from the 2019 state championship team, he said while the Tigers have a young team, he feels they have what it takes to get the job done and claim another state title for the program as long as they keep playing like they have.

Im glad I (was on the 2019 team)and I learned a lot from it and were just going in and going to play it like a normal game and I think we can come out on top, MacDougall said. Weve got a good team so Im confident.

MacDougall led the way for Taunton on offense, going two-for-three with two runs and two RBIs while Bryce went three-for-four with two RBIs, Brayden Cali went one-for-three with two runs and Evan Cali went one-for-two with a run.

Drew Delucia took the loss for CM, going one and two-thirds innings giving up five runs (two earned) on eight hits and two walks while striking out three. Connor Nelson went three and two-thirds innings giving up an unearned run on three hits andtwo walks while striking out three before Tom Goonan went two-thirds of an inning, striking out both batters he faced.

The Knights were ledoffensively by Malaret, who went two-for-four with a run and RBI while Boyd went two-for-four with a run and Goonan went one-for-three with a run.

Taunton Daily Gazette sports reporter Cameron Merritt can be reached at cmerritt@tauntongazette.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @CamMerritt_News. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to the Taunton Daily Gazette today.

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Taunton beats Catholic Memorial to advance to second D1 title game in three seasons - Taunton Daily Gazette

Call us peculiar or idiosyncratic, but we are what we are, and so blooming proud to be so. Down in the dumps or back to the wall, the citizens of this holy city are so downright at ease with themselves. They bounce back, redouble, live in lofty optimism, absolutely bindass, if you allow me to borrow the Mumbaikar terminology. And yet the visitors, including the Bambaiya, the Bengali, the Madrasi et al, marvel at us Ambarsaris.

Agog and wonderstruck they often remark about the laid-back attitude, the no hurry-no worry lifestyle, our oddities, and the happy-go-lucky demeanour. Yet that is so, and we take the observations and some sniggers in our stride without batting an eyelid.

There is an air of celebration, joie de vivre if one may, an exuberance in our social milieu and in our living style which leaves the outsider a bit taken aback. What the heck are they so thrilled about? They wonder. This is what is elucidated in the Geeta Saar, the summary of Bhagavad Gita, the divine vision of Lord Krishna, which establishes that all that has happened, will happen, is happening, is good, and that change is the essence of life. Live with that or crib your hearts out, if you will.

Anand is one of the core beliefs that emanate from the Gurbani too, the spirit of joy in spite of, despite, or because of a life event or situation. The belief that everything comes and goes, even moments of sadness and pleasure, yet what remains is the equilibrium of your connection with the good lord. Anand is thus sung at the end of all life situations, in celebration of a birth, when one marries, or when someone dies.

We close each of these diverse ceremonies with the singing of His name- Naam with joy. So there.

Since life is a celebration, thus our festivities are prolonged affairs, be they weddings or others. The great Indian wedding was perhaps a term that originated from this city. A wedding means not just the band-baaja-barat, but a colossal fest spread usually over a week, if not more. But preceding that are the basics. First, the matrimonial alliance itself, once all the proposals are vetted, rejected, or put in the maybe-bins; the patris and astrological charts are compared to affirm that there shall be no discord and the stars support the alliance; due diligence from both sides with ample assist from relative and community grapevines, and finally the visit to the mandir or the gurdwara. But then this is just the beginning.

What follows is the Rokaa, loosely translated as the full stop. So, no further flirtation or philandering chum, you are spoken for. This is a public event much like we give earnest money for a property deal or sign a memorandum of understanding in corporate terms. This is when the dates begin to be decided and the shopping forays start. Eventually, this buying carnival shall reach a crescendo, much like a band in action going from steady jazz to hard rock. All the heavenly blessings need solicitation, so the havans and the akhand paaths happen, those supplications to the Good Lord, to augur well for the betrothal itself.

My niece is getting married in February next year. Both the families have been scouting for destination venues for the past few months after the Rokaa happened. Trips have already been made to Jaipur, Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, Rishikesh, and more. Talk of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Hua Hin have also ensued although the cities have been spared a visitfor now. The venue is still undecided and in heart of hearts, I am so wishing that they tire themselves out and narrow in on Amritsar as the destination. That would be simply divine, a winter wedding, in fact anywhere from October to March, when the weather is great and the air so very festive and crisp is the ideal in this holy city. Ah, the food, the festivities, the divine presence of the Gurus darbar, so many places to see, and so much local kitsch to borrow from.

Oh, but first the ring ceremony has to happen, the Shagan, the Mehndi. If you go by the gold standard in tradition, a Jaago ceremony must take place wherein the mami, the maternal aunt, carries the lamp-lit earthenware pot headload through the village, with all the womenfolk dressed in phulkari dupattas singing traditional songs, inviting all and sundry to the wedding. And eventually the marriage itself, close-knit at a destination far away, or with larger hordes back home. Then of course a reception party, perhaps a sundowner, downing many a tippler, and finally the honeymoon. And did I forget the pre-wedding bachelor party and the girls night-out in between? This is dizzy stuff, and we embrace all the local jing-bang and the foreign pomp and show with equal measure and much relish.

Our fairs are also beyond compare. The Vaisakh da mela or the Vallah da mela or the Baba Roda Shah da mela. Just to add that air of familiarity in common parlance they are pronounced with an extended e at the end as if it were a term of endearment. Vasaakhee, Valle, and Rode Shah. Dont ask me why though.

But back to Baba Roda Shah who gave an issueless farmer the blessing of a child after many years of infertility. When the happy father offered a princely sum, he was asked instead to service the devotees with liquor daily till the amount was expended. So began the tradition. Though a major two-day event takes place every March, the lively prasaad is offered daily. The bottles offered by devotees are emptied into plastic buckets and distributed among the pilgrims. All said and done, everyone goes back in a merry state, though some who manage the lions share include tipsy priests and inebriated cops lying about on roadsides.

Another intriguing fest is Kanjakaan, which entails washing the feet of nine girls below the age of puberty, tying red threads (Molis) on their wrists, giving them gifts, and then treating them to a feast. The festival is in celebration of the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Oh, by the way, we did mention the peculiar feast of luchhi that is on offer only on this day, did we not? That with black gram and suji halwa? The luchhi, a typical delicacy, that is neither the puri nor the bhatura, but one that is thin to the extent of starvation yet lissome as feasible, one that is just dropped into the oil for a few seconds and considered good to eat. It is quite the pop-up bread available only for this day of the year, the pre-puberty fest.

We have a 10-day Langur mela as well, centred around the Bada Hanuman Mandir. While some do it for a token one time, others come from far and near, stay a full 10 days, and dress up their blessing, their son, twice a day as Langurs. Wearing silver and red attire, with silver dunce caps, tails to match, jingling bells around the ankles, a Hanuman mace, the gada in one hand and accompanied by dholis, they arrive dancing up to the temple as thanksgiving for the progeny. The boy child shall each year be dressed as a Langur for the vanar sena of Hanuman. Some poor sods whose parents have let this ceremony slide for many years, wear this fancy dress even after they are grown-up teenagers.

And while the world we know celebrates the Holi festival for a few hours on a particular day, it is no holds barred here. We celebrate Holi and Hollah Mohallah, hold your breath, for an entire week. The walled city, its bazars, mandis and kuchhas close down for seven days of revelry and much grime. We do the colours, even chemical perma dyes (shudder), andaas for the egg chucking, and garbage as well. Its a veritable free for all, so while the kids, and some of those who never grow up, fling the spectrum unabashed, the careful stay at home lest they be stained by the fervour. But lets also mention the mindful few who do the decent marigolds and dry organic powdered colours too.

And for all our fests and celebrations, deeds and misdeeds, passing aways and passing outs, the farewells and welcomes we pitch a tent. In fact, I must share my visit to the top gun homeopath of the city. He is great at his job and perfects the art of roadside dispensing as well. The patients are required to line up on the Grand Trunk Road outside his clinic. A cemented bench and a score of plastic chairs are at hand, and a tamboo (tent) is set up across the side lane for respite from the blistering summer sun. He is assisted by efficient ladies who give out token numbers, and then call them out from the highway one by one. They stand in front of anyone who tries unnumbered ingress in open effrontery almost like bouncers, albeit prettier. For those on repeat medication the assistant hands over little khaki envelopes at the doorstep. Succour by the roadside indeed.

And then if ordained, you enter. A mahogany desk seats two doctors including the boss. The patient sits on a single stool outside of a thick plastic curtain. Any accompanying attendant must stand beside. I felt much favoured as I sat on a distant stool within. The symptoms are called for, a couple of quick questions, an exchange of looks and a word if necessary, and the khaki lifaafa of the sure-to-cure magic potion is ready.

Talking about the tent and four poles, the tamboo, it is pretty much a way of life for us. Someone passed away at home, oh no; someone getting married, oh yes; an outing for the good lord with kirtan and bhajans in celebration or in remorse, yup yup. All you do is dig up the road outside and pitch the tent baby, Gadd deo tamboo. And guess what, when one tries to gain road access driving down and finds that there is no road where it used to be, you just mutter under your breath, reverse, and find another pathway. Its okay. Its either what is it to us huh (sannu kee) or live and let live (jio te jeen deo).

And in all that we do, everything comes through at the last moment. Since you are not expected to be on time, if you do the stupid punctuality thing, you will wonder if you got the dates wrong when you see that the tent-wallas are still pitching tents, the hosts nowhere to be seen, the marigolds still being put up and ladders everywhere. As the easy-going Ambarsari says, Chill and not worry ji, it will happen when it does, and if it does not, then what? (Ho hayegaa, thand rakho. Nahee hoyeyaa? koyee naa, mitti pao.)

And people talk about the Happiness Index elsewhere. Well, little do they know! Meanwhile, life goes on in the city of Amritsar where we are what we are and it is what it is.

(Gunbir Singh is an Amritsar-based environmentalist, philanthropist and author who loves all things Ambarsari)

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Amritsar Calling: Holy city where happiness index shoots through the roof - The Indian Express

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 will be the next-generation mainstream gaming graphics card, offering the latest graphics architecture based on Ada Lovelace GPUs. The graphics card will be replacing the RTX 3050, a very popular gaming graphics card in the sub-$300 US segment which is aimed at the mass consumer segment.

While there's no denying the enthusiasm around the higher-end GeForce RTX 4090, GeForce RTX 4080 & GeForce RTX 4070 series, or even the more mainstream RTX 4060 graphics cards that offer the best of the best gaming performance, the RTX 4050 series graphics cards will be designed around the $250 US segment which is a mainstream priced range aimed at the budget gamer who wants the same features as higher-end cards minus the performance, at a much lower price point.

It's simple, the RTX 4090 series will be aimed at users who want the best of the best without worrying about the amount of money they are spending while the RTX 4080 series is aimed at users who want the best performance at the best possible price. The RTX 4070 will be the sweet spot for high-end gaming, while the RTX 4060 is designed for the gaming masses at a price that will be hard to ignore given its performance, and the RTX 4050 is aimed at those who want to enter the new series at a budget tier pricing without losing the next-gen feature set.

Just like the generation before it, the RTX 3050 managed to offer performance close to the RTX 2060 but was hurt by its 128-bit memory interface. The RTX 3050 did offer better performance, features, and value (at MSRP) versus its competition, the RX 6500 XT but it took months to reach a price close to the MSRP. Overall, the RTX 3050 was a 1080p-focused and eSports-aimed graphics card and the same should be expected of the RTX 4050.

The '50-class' segment is the share-cow for NVIDIA and it's definitely something that NVIDIA wants to have priced right in its given performance.

We should expect similar things with the next-generation gaming solution too but an important factor to consider is that GPUs are becoming more power-hungry and more pricey. It is a trend that might continue into the future as we get better products but in return, there's always a cost to pay for end consumers. So starting with what we know so far, first we should take a look at the brand new Ada Lovelace or AD10* class GPUs that will be powering the next-gen GeForce RTX 40 series cards.

Starting with the GPU configuration, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 series graphics cards may utilize both AD106 and AD107 GPUs. We don't think there would be a 'Ti' configuration in the lineup as we didn't get that during the Ampere family but it could change. The reason I mention both AD106 and AD107 GPU for the same card is that the RTX 3050 did the same. The card was produced on GA106 GPUs before GA107 became widely available in the market after its mobile debut.

The RTX 3050 was always meant to utilize the GA107 GPU but NVIDIA made good use of the GA106 dies that couldn't reach the yields required for the higher-end cards. The GPU is said to measure around 150mm2 and will utilize the TSMC 4N process node which is an optimized version of TSMC's 5nm (N5) node designed for the green team.

The NVIDIA Ada Lovelace AD107 GPU is expected to feature up to 3 GPC (Graphics Processing Clusters). This is the same GPC count as the GA106 GPU. Each GPC will consist of 4 TPCs and 8 SMs which is the same configuration as the existing chip. Each SM (Streaming Multiprocessor) will house four sub-cores which is also the same as the GA106 GPU. What's changed is the FP32 & the INT32 core configuration. Each sub-core will include 128 FP32 units but combined FP32+INT32 units will go up to 192. This is because the FP32 units don't share the same sub-core as the IN32 units. The 128 FP32 cores are separate from the 64 INT32 cores.

So in total, each sub-core will consist of 32 FP32 plus 16 INT32 units for a total of 48 units. Each SM will have a total of 128 FP32 units plus 64 INT32 units for a total of 192 units. And since there are a total of 24 SM units (8 per GPC), we are looking at 3,072 FP32 Units and 1,536 INT32 units for a total of 4,608 cores.

NVIDIA AD103 'Ada Lovelace' Gaming GPU 'SM' Block Diagram (Image Credits: Kopite7kimi):

Moving over to the cache, this is another segment where NVIDIA has given a big boost over the existing Ampere GPUs. The Ada Lovelace GPUs will pack 192 KB of L1 cache per SM, an increase of 50% over Ampere. The L2 cache will be increased to 16 MB as mentioned in the leaks. This is an 8x increase over the Ampere GA106 GPU that hosts just 2 MB of L2 cache. The cache will be shared across the GPU.

Finally, we have the ROPs which will stick to 16 per GPC. You are looking at up to 48 ROPs, the same as the current GA106 GPUs. There are also going to be the latest 4th Generation Tensor and 3rd Generation RT (Raytracing) cores infused on the Ada Lovelace GPUs which will help boost DLSS & Raytracing performance to the next level. Overall, the Ada Lovelace AD107 GPU will offer:

NVIDIA AD107 'Ada Lovelace' Gaming GPU Block Diagram Mock-Up (Image Credits: SemiAnalysis):

Do note that clock speeds, which are said to be between the 2-3 GHz range, aren't taken into the equation so they will also play a major role in improving the per-core performance versus Ampere.

NVIDIA may or may not offer two variants of the GeForce RTX 4050 graphics cards. That depends on whether they have enough chips or defective dies at hand to turn into discrete graphics cards but we know that there is indeed going to be an RTX 4050 graphics card. The laptop side may see more configurations but for RTX 4050 on desktops, we can expect the following specs.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 'Expected' Specifications

Based on NVIDIA's decision to do a mix of AD106/AD107 or go AD107 across its RTX 4050 series lineup we can see up to a total of 3072 cores. The AD107 GPU will come packed with 16 MB of L2 cache and up to 48 ROPs.

The clock speeds are not confirmed yet but considering that the TSMC 4N process is being used, we are expecting clocks between the 2.0-3.0 GHz range. The higher than usual clock speed bump comes from the fact that NVIDIA is making a two-node jump considering the Ampere GPUs with Samsung 8nm node was in reality a 10nm process node with some optimizations. NVIDIA is skipping 7nm and going straight for a 5nm node and not even the vanilla variant but an optimized version of it. With Pascal on the TSMC 16nm node, NVIDIA delivered a huge frequency leap and we can expect a similar jump this time around too.

As for memory specs, the GeForce RTX 4050 is expected to rock 8 GB GDDR6X capacities that might come at faster 20+ Gbps speeds across a 128-bit bus interface for over 320 GB/s of bandwidth. The thing is that you can either go 8 GB for such a graphics card in the given 128-bit bus or cut down to 96-bit for either 6 GB or 12 GB configurations.

The GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card is also said to rock a TGP of around 150W which is an increase of 30% over the RTX 3050 on the GA107 GPU. This is a massive TGP increase and the performance needs to be really good for NVIDIA to keep its efficiency numbers up.

As for its feature set, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 graphics cards will rock all the modern NV feature sets such as the latest 4th Gen Tensor Cores, 3rd gen RT cores, and the latest NVENC Encoder, and NVCDEC Decoder, and support for the latest APIs. They will pack all the modern RTX features such as DLSS, Reflex, Broadcast, Resizable-BAR, Freestyle, Ansel, Highlights, Shadowplay, and G-SYNC support too.

As for the performance of the gaming GPUs, we can only use theoretical numbers here since the launch is a bit far away but based on what we know, the RTX 40 series cards might be the first gaming cards to hit the 100 TFLOPs compute horsepower limit.

Just for comparison's sake:

Based on a theoretical clock speed of 2.2 GHz, you get up to 14 TFLOPs of compute performance and the rumors are suggesting even higher boost clocks. Now, these are definitely sounding like peak clocks, similar to AMD's peak frequencies which are higher than the average 'Game' clock. A 14+ TFLOPs compute performance means more performance on a '50-class' GPU than a '60-class flagship' which will be a good bump. But one should keep in mind that compute performance doesn't necessarily indicate the overall gaming performance.

This will be around a55% compute performance uplift for the GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card versus its predecessor and this is without even factoring in the RT and Tensor core performance which is expected to get major lifts too in their respective department. Now FLOPs aren't necessarily reflective of the graphics or gaming performance but they do provide a metric that can be used for comparison.

Gamers should most realistically expect good 1080p performance from the RTX 3050. The '50' series has always been targeted at budget 1080p solutions that are popular amongst eSports with technologies such as Reflex, DLSS, and various streaming capabilities at a mainstream price point.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 was launched at $249 US. We can expect NVIDIA to retain the same prices for these cards with a $10-$20 US pricing adjustment here and there.

NVIDIA really needs to secure more gamers in the $200-$300 US segment but they have to deliver a product that's worth the price. The RTX 3050 was a decent upgrade path given and what made it really interesting was its expansive 'GeForce RTX' feature set. This time, NVIDIA should focus on both the feature and performance side of things to lure more gamers into their ecosystem as this is going to be a really heated segment with Intel entering the space with its Arc lineup.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series graphics cards are rumored for a Q3 reveal and a launch is expected in Q4 2022 so we will know for sure what NVIDIA is up to in the next few months.

See the article here:

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Graphics Card Specs, Performance, Price & Availability Everything We Know So Far - Wccftech

"Morning paddle on Middle Saranac Lake." Archiver Photo of the Day by Mike Pratt Greenfield Center, NY

Jun 09, 2022

There will be a chance for a shower this weekend, but otherwise, its looking like another nice weekend in the Adirondacks.

DEC has lifted the Mud Advisory, but expect to encounter mud just the same. You can avoid widening trails and trampling sensitive vegetation by wearing appropriate footwear and walking through, not around, muddy areas.

Summit temperatures this weekend are expected to be mostly in the 40s on Saturday and lower 50s on Sunday. If you are headed to summits, be prepared to encounter a rain shower - that can lead to hypothermia when temperatures are this cool.

The region received some considerable rain over the past couple of days and that has raised the levels of rivers and streams to well above normal levels for this time of year. Some stream crossings may be difficult, but those levels will be going down as the weekend progresses.

The Hudson River at North Creek is higher and is expected to peak at about 4.5 feet on Saturday, about 2200 CFS. The Raquette River is expected to peak at about 5.5 feet on Saturday at Piercefield. The gage a little north of Whitehall on Lake Champlain will be about 97.5 feet this weekend.

Water temperatures cooled some this week. Upper Saranac Lake is now in the mid-60s, as is Mirror Lake. Lake Champlain is closer to 60 degrees and Lake George is mostly in the lower 60s.

Most rock-climbing routes are open, although a few remain closed at Moss Cliffs and Notch Mountain, at Poke-O-Moonshine, and on the Main Wall at Shelving Rock. All routes are closed at the Campground Wall at Rogers Rock and at Potash Mountain.

And finally this week, the road to Saint Germain and Meadow Ponds in the Saranac Lakes Wild Forest has been repaired and is open.

Continue reading here:

This weekend in the Adirondacks: Cool waters, rock climbing routes open - North Country Public Radio

Where have you been, asked my neighbour. I enthused about the pub meal I'd just enjoyed. "I'd forgotten about that place, it's been years since I went there." There was a time when the Plume of Feathers was renowned as one of THE pubs to dine in Cornwall. It's understandable why it may have fallen off my neighbour's radar.

Not because the standard has dropped, but because everywhere else has pulled up its collective socks in the past decade or so. Cornwall is now one of the best places to eat out in the UK, so the choice and quality has improved manifold since the Plume ran the roost.

However, it deserves to be talked up again among the very best dining pubs in Cornwall - the Three Pilchards in Polperro, Pennycomequick and Star & Garter in Falmouth, Rising Sun and Heron Inn in Truro, St Kew Inn, Gurnard's Head at Zennor and the Mariners in Rock all spring to mind.

Read more: Cornwall's restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes you must visit in June

Situated a stone's throw from the A30, if Cornwall was the sort of place to have a commuter belt then Mitchell would be it - equidistant as it is from Truro and Newquay. The village once straddled the old A30 but has got a lot quieter since it was bypassed. It hides a lot of history - its first recorded mention was in 1234 and it was renowned for holding markets and fairs on the Feast of Saint Francis. Good piece of pub quiz action this - both Walter Raleigh and Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, were MPs representing Mitchell.

It became the place to be during the 1960s folk boom thanks to the legendary Folk Cottage, which played host to burgeoning big names including Wizz Jones, Jacqui McShee, Incredible String Band co-founder Clive Palmer, Michael Chapman and Ralph McTell, who doesn't live that far away to this day.

Now it's most famous for two things - Mitchell Fruit Garden, where you can pick your own strawberries, raspberries and more (believe me, it's a brilliant family day out on a summer's day) and the 16th century coaching inn. That olde worlde rural charm is still there but sympathetically fluffed up with some modern cool, including 20 rooms converted from the pub's original barns, stables and hen houses.

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One of the Plume's most unusual features is the ancient well in the heart of the pub which you stand on top of thanks to a glass section of flooring. Fresh spring water flows below. The pub itself is a mix of the old (huge, gnarly wooden beams and granite walls), the cosy (eat by an open fire) and the new (the light and airy conservatory dining area which is beautifully sun-kissed on a good day). There is a place for everyone - bright spaces for large family gatherings and special occasions, dark little corners for besotted lovers.

I had a sneaky peek at the menu online before visiting just to get the juices flowing and it's one of those where the choice is impressive and a bit overwhelming. On visiting, I asked the obliging waiter what he would go for - he chose well. 'Squid and bacon' may sound like a simple starter, but this is pub food with delusions of grandeur, though it's far from deluded.

Crispy crackling squid puts its friendly little tentacle around maple belly pork rasher and gives it a tweak with burnt apple puree, bacon jam, charred gem and sherry caramel. It's a beauty. Head chef Andrew Dudley and his team seek out the best local suppliers and this is a great example of Cornish produce at its best.

It's also a bit of a multicultural menu too - Korean fried tofu is a particularly popular starter as is The Nurse's choice, Mexican prawns - marinated prawns, chunky guacamole, charred gem lettuce, salsa, spicy Mexican mayo and cheesy breadsticks. I nicked some of the latter - deliciosa. Starters range from 6 to 9.50 and also include mackerel on toast, ham and cheese croquette, and the intriguing Walnut Whip - whipped goats curd, candied walnut crumb, frozen blackberries, torched fig, BBQ beetroot, watercress, honeycomb, burnt orange and honey oat crumble. See, this isn't your standard fish and chips gaff (though that's on the menu too).

Mains are priced from 16 to 25 and prove that 'something for everyone' isn't a clich. Want it vegan or veggie? How about a hedgerow risotto or spiced jack fruit and smoked tofu burger. Want it traditional? There's sirloin and rump steak and a range of burgers? Want it a bit more exotic? Malaysian chicken curry, Cornish homity pie or pan fried salt and citrus hake should see you right.

Even when it sounds pretty straightforward, Andrew is working his magic. 'Ham and egg' is a lot more than 'ham and egg'. Honey glazed ham is served with Scotch egg, cheesy ham hock and leek croquettes (again nicked by me and, again, excellent), pickles, onion relish and slaw.

I bowed down to the waiter's knowledge and chose the Mexican BBQ. Not for the fainthearted or small of appetite, this wonderful plate of food features smoked and spiced beef brisket (which manages to be both heady and delicate), Mexican pulled pork, charred corn, sweet potato fries, corn mole, fried chicken wings, guacamole, sour cream, tortilla and Mexican slaw. It's as good as anything you'll get in a traditional Mexican restaurant.

The food here's hearty so there was only room for one dessert but, again, what a choice (prices range from 2.50 for a scoop of ice cream or sorbet to 9 for a knickerbocker glory) . Every kid will be tempted by 'Paddington Bears marmalade sandwich', bitter marmalade sauce, candied zest, orange sherbet, caramel shards, orange biscuit crumble with a mango, and a lime and passion fruit sorbet. Then you might get pudding envy when you spot someone being served 'I love strawberries' - which looks like an explosion at a fairground; strawberry candyfloss and all manner of loveliness dedicated to everyone's favourite summer fruit.

I went for the relatively simple but effective 'coffee jar' - a jar of tiramisu alongside espresso ice cream, cranberry and pistachio biscotti. Bleddy 'ansum as they've been saying in Mitchell for years. This is ingenious pub food which needs to be experienced. It's definitely worth taking that detour off the A30 for - I've already told my forgetful neighbour to drive there.

Go here to read the rest:

Ingenious pub food at the Plume of Feathers is worth the detour off the A30 in Cornwall - Cornwall Live

Though its often overshadowed by larger events of the era, Americas first rock festival the Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival was held June 10 and 11, 1967, at Mount Tamalpais in Northern California. The location was a natural choice. The Summer of Love was blooming in nearby San Francisco and the hippie counterculture was ready to join together in celebration. Local radio station KFRC hosted the event, with profits from ticket sales (which cost $2 each) benefiting local charities.

Up until this point, outdoor music festivals had been more subdued affairs, focused on jazz or folk.

Maria Muldaur, who performed at the Fantasy Fair with the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, told Rolling Stone that the portent of things turning into rock festivals was when [Bob] Dylan first played electric at Newport [in 1965]. The alternative lifestyle the hipsters, the jazz aficionados were already drawn to Newport, but things were a little more buttoned-down and straight. There were still vestiges of the '50s.

As Americas first rock fest, the Fantasy Fair would dramatically change the festival blueprint.

For starters, road access to the picturesque festival site was limited. Attendees had to park in nearby Marin and take rented school buses to the event, dubbed the Trans-Love bus line. Meanwhile, the local Hells Angels motorcycle gang was enlisted to keep the peace.

They were not hired, festival co-producer Tom Rounds later clarified. It was their turf and we needed their support. I dont think it was our intention to use them as security; it was just our intention to have them present to be fearsome. [Laughs.] It was totally nonconfrontational, just them being there said, OK, theres law and order.

The Fantasy Fair also played up its theme, with decorations including a giant inflatable Buddha balloon and banners displaying each astrological sign. Booths and tents housed a wide array of local merchants selling food, jewelry, handmade candles, clothing, bongs and almost any other trinket you could dream up.

The fair part was based on the Renaissance Fairs where people dressed up in costumes for period pieces and they had jugglers, acrobats and people reciting old poetry, noted Jefferson Airplane bassist Jack Casady. It was part of the whole attraction of the festival of having various talented people in their community able to express their talent in so many different ways.

There were kids sliding down the hill on cardboard, people selling trinkets and incense, painting faces, all kinds of people in the woods smoking pot that was the most amazing thing, photographer Elaine Mayes told Marin Magazine.

There were cops everywhere, and nobody paid any attention. That had never happened before.

Watch Fan-Shot Footage FromFantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival

Despite all the accoutrement, the Fantasy Fair was still a music festival. Organizers delivered an eclectic lineup, including Jefferson Airplane, Canned Heat, Dionne Warwick, the Byrds, Steve Miller Blues Band and in one of their biggest gigs outside of L.A. at that point the Doors.

I remember seeing the Doors and thinking it was more theater than music, John York, who was playing with the Byrds at the time, later recalled. Jim [Morrison] was like Hamlet or Macbeth; hes created some kind of a character that generates this energy where people want to see what happens next.

Unfortunately, the Doors singer wasn't exactly on his game.

Morrison was shit-faced drunk and there were these two poles on the corner of the stage that held lighting, long-time San Francisco music critic Joel Selvin later recalled. He was swinging around it. One minute he was there, the other, he wasnt. He fell off the stage about 15 feet, but came back and finished the song like nothing happened.

See Footage of the Doors at Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival

The Doors' performance was just one of the weekend's memorable moments. The Byrds delivered their set with a stagehand as their drummer. He had no idea who we were; he just recognized that we were four guys on stage with guitars and a bass but no drummer, York recalled. Unable to find a spare set of drumsticks, the stagehand played using the broken-off legs of a coffee table. He didnt know the songs. He just listened to the music and played. And no one was upset with what he sounded like.

Still, the trippiest performance of the fest belonged to Captain Beefheart. During his Magic Bands second song, something came over namesake frontman Don Van Vliet.

Don completely froze, drummer John French said. I see Don turn around, panicked, and walk off the back of the stage like there was no drop and fall off. According to French, Van Vliet suffered an intense acid flashback. He was looking down at this girl [from the stage] and her face turned into a fish and bubbles came out of her mouth. Captain Beefheart wasnt the only one seeing things at the Fantasy Fair. By all accounts, drug use was rampant. Everybody was doing acid, if nothing else, admitted Art Resnick of the band Salvation. It was San Francisco in the Summer of Love, for Christs sake. After all the drugs and shit, man, I dont even remember playing.

WatchAmateur Footage From Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival

The Fantasy Fair was celebrated by attendees and hailed in the local press as a huge success. The San Francisco Chronicle described it as wild sound and wild colors, skydivers and side-shows, bizarre hippies from the Haight-Ashbury and T-shirted fraternity boys from Cal, young people necking. ... There was something for everybody.

Despite breaking new ground and establishing many elements that are still used in music festivals today, the Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain event has been largely forgotten. The Monterey Pop Festival took place a week later followed by 1969s Woodstock, and they are commonly held as the eras most historically significant fests.

[Fantasy Fair] was a weekend that symbolized how we were and how we felt at the time, singer-songwriter Penny Nichols later explained. By the time Monterey comes around, now were all feeling self-aware of how important we are.

Here's a chronological look at the 100 best rock albums of the '60s.

Jim Morrison is Part of Rocks Tragic 27 Club

Originally posted here:

America's First Rock Festival: Drugs, Hells Angels and the Doors - Ultimate Classic Rock

How do I order food?! and other good things to know if youre visiting Japan this summer for the first time since before the start of the pandemic.

With Japan preparing to greatly increase the number of international tourists and relax certain immigration procedures on June 10, there are likely to be many first-time visitors to the country finally able to fulfill their pre-pandemic travel plans. At the same time, even frequent travelers to the country will likely be stepping foot inside the borders for the first time in years. In my case, Im part of the latter group but actually arrived three weeks ago on a work-related family visa and will be in Tokyo for the duration of the summer.

Its been five years since I last visited Japan in 2017 (my March 2020 plans to visit were derailed), nine years since I worked at a Japanese junior high school, and 12 years since I studied abroad in Tokyo. Apart from the slight shock that comes from living in a small, rural town in the U.S. and suddenly finding myself in one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, Ive often found myself thinking Huh? Was it always like this? on multiple occasions over the past few weeks. Im not just referring to things that can be expected to change as time goes by, like stations being remodeled, the sales tax now being systematically noted in prices, or stores opening and closing (though seriously, what do you mean theres a Pokmon Center Tokyo DX AND a Pokmon Center Mega now?!), but more like different ways of doing things. The following is a short list of these personal takes on little things about daily life that feel different to me since my last visit.

By the way, the permanent Pokmon Caf is also new since five years ago!

Disclaimer: These reflections are entirely mine and mine alone. It could be that my memory stinks, or that I was just oblivious to certain things in the past and am now noticing them all the time (the frequency illusion). It could also be the fact that my Japan lens is more focused on the happenings of the northeastern Tohoku region, which is where Ive spent the duration of my time living and working in the country. In any case, I hope readers both outside of the country and within can find common ground with me on at least one of these items.

1. Hand sanitizer is EVERYWHERE

Im sure this is old news to anyone whos lived in Japan throughout the pandemic, but alcohol-based hand sanitizer stations are everywhere in Tokyo. Normally this kind of mundane observation wouldnt be interesting at all if not for the fact that they are truly EVERYWHERE here.

Five years ago, hand sanitizers were pretty much limited to supermarket entrances if anywhere, but now you cant go more than a few steps in a public space without spotting one. The entrance to every single store Ive been to has a sanitizer, often with a convenient foot pedal or automatic sensor so you dont have to touch the nozzle.

Foot pedal style of sanitizer station

Its also good to note that at certain stores, especially restaurants, staff will direct you to use sanitizer before they guide you inside, or may even spray it on your open palms using a squirt bottle.

Automatic sensor kind

When I was last in Japan five years ago, I remember one of my Japanese friends commenting on how American it was of me to whip out my little bottle of hand sanitizer from my purse as it was uncommon to use it in Japan back then. Now I dont even think twice about using it when I get on and off the train. As a further note, pandemic protection is such a concern in Japan that staff may possibly scan your temperature or ask you to stand in front of a thermal camera on rare occasions as well, as I had to do the other day while visiting a university class. Just be prepared to follow any guidelines about precautionary health measures that you may be directed to take in public spaces.

2. I can get takeout from pretty much anywhere now?!

Another thing which has caused me to do a double take on several occasions is seeing takeout menus and posters for takeout food plastered everywhere. I dont mean just at places designed for takeout, like those selling bento or drinks, but virtually all types of restaurants offer it now, too. Oftentimes a menu posted outside of the entrance of a restaurant will even note in English something like Takeout OK or indicate the specific dishes that can be ordered to go.

A sign outside of a small, neighborhood caf

Im guessing its directly the result of the pandemic, but to me this is a major shift from five years ago, when most cafes and sit-down restaurants in Tokyo never gave the option for food to-go.

A takeout sign spotted in Odaiba. This one also indicates that online ordering is possible.

Along these same lines, Ive seen many more Uber Eats and other food delivery bikers than I previously recall seeing as well. Im super curiouswill the next big change in Japans restaurant scene five years from now be the ability to take home leftovers?

3. QR codes to order food

Speaking of food, boy was I surprised the first time I sat down at a local restaurant for lunch, only to then be directed by the server to order my food through a QR code taped to the table. Huh? Maybe Ive been living under a rock all these years, and Ive since heard that this system is also being used in some countries like Australia and particularly at bars in the U.S. largely due to the pandemic,but this one was new to me. It seems to be a fairly common practice (but not the norm) here because Ive now encountered it at several eateries in Japan.

A meal by QR code within Shinagawa Station

While it seems pretty split as to whether an English version of the online ordering menu is available at any particular restaurant, they all seem to display good photos of the dishes.

Similarly, some fast food chains like Sukiya seem to have done away with ticket vending machines at a lot of branches and now offer multilingual tablets for ordering at each table.

In a way, the QR system makes me relieved because I dont have to engage in yelling sumimasen across the room to call a server over when Im ready to order something (other foreigner friends and I used to play janken to determine who got to do that dreaded task). On the other hand, I can see how this might create a slight dilemma for international travelers who dont have a smartphone, pocket wi-fi, or international data plan during their stay in Japan. If all else fails, ordering the analog way is still an option.

4. The Land of Point Cards has become the Land of Point Apps

Japan has always been the Land of Point Cards, much to my delight. After all, if I repeatedly pour my yen into a particular store, why wouldnt I like to be rewarded with an occasional incentive (Im looking pointedly at you, Book-OffIve probably spent a years worth of my salary at you over my lifetime). However, something new and unexpected now greets me at the register of almost every retail location I visitthe Point App, as Im thinking of dubbing it.

It happened the first morning I ventured out to order an iced coffee. Do you have our point card? the staff asked, as is standard practice. When I replied that no, I didnt, but would like to get one, she handed me a small document with instructions on how to download their point app. This didnt appear to pose an issue until later when I tried to download the app on my Android phone, only to be told that this app isnt available in your countrys Google Play Store. Darn, but oh well. It didnt bother me at first, but after running into the same issue at every new store I went to, it got to be more and more frustrating.

Now, I try asking if its possible to get a good old-fashioned paper card. Ive had about 50-50 successat some stores, they simply shake their heads and say they dont offer them anymore.

A fraction of my Japanese point card and members card collection, both old and new

Speaking of barcode wizardry, when buying my new Spy x Family t-shirt at Uniqlo the other day, I discovered this new setup. You simply place your bag of items on the right and the system can scan them all at onceeven over a dozen items. Wild!

5. Gates on train platforms

The last observation on my list today is that my first time riding a train in Tokyo again, it immediately struck me that many more JR lines now have automated gates on their platforms that only open when a train has arrived and come to a full stop. I vaguely recall this being the case at a number of particularly busy stations during my last visit (and certainly not where I had lived in the north at all), but now these gates seem much more common.According to official sources, the number of stations with gates in the Tokyo metropolitan area has rapidly increased since 2010, and records show that as of February 2022, 28 out of 30 stations on the popular Yamanote Line have gates. Furthermore, East Japan Rail announced in 2018 that its goal is to install gates at 330 train stations in the Tokyo metropolitan area by 2032, so they really are becoming more commonplace.Theyre certainly a welcome development to prevent all kinds of accidents and other unfortunate euphemistic-sounding delay notices that you might encounter around the city.

The gates on a JR Yamanote Line platform

Despite all of these little differences that Ive observed for myself, Ive found an equal number of things about daily life in Japan to be comfortingly familiar. Certain store jingles are still exactly the same (If youre selling books, its Book-Off ). I still want to bring ALL of the cute stationery at Loft home with me. Starbucks Japans limited-time seasonal drinks are still delicious. French fry portions are still way too small for my potato-loving comfort (unfortunately I missed Freshness Burgers 25 percent portion increase for free earlier this year). My 12-year old Suica transportation card still works like a charm. Japanese people are still pros at courteously lining up for anything. Elementary school students still walk themselves to and from school every day. I can still pass through a city block only to discover a tranquil Shinto shrine sandwiched between two high-rises. It makes me think, Oh yes, this is Japanand that will never change.

Reference: Reports for the FutureAbout Railway and InfrastructureAll images SoraNews24 Want to hear about SoraNews24s latest articles as soon as theyre published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

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How life in Tokyo has changed from five years ago: Five personal takes from our reporter - SoraNews24

Fish Producers from across the island have called for a fair share of the rights to fish in the waters of our 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Other nations catch about 250m worth of fish a year in our waters almost twice as much as the Irish fleet catches, says IFPO chief executive, Aodh ODonnell.

The Carrick seafood producer says the quotas allocated by the EU to the Irish fishing fleet amount to a paltry 18% of the volume of fish in our 200-mile Zone every year. Other nations take the balance of the fish, but bizarrely some EU States are unable to catch their annual quota allocations in this EU zone.

So, we are calling on the EU to at the very least enable reallocation of annual uncaught quotas in Irelands EEZ to Irish vessels, to give us a more equitable share.

The IFPO statement follows a series of meetings in Brussels last week, arranged and hosted by SF MEP, Chris McManus. The meetings were attended by the IFPO, alongside other fishing organisations, such as Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation, the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association, the Irish Fishing & Seafood Alliance, Foyle Fishermens Cooperative, and the Galway & Aran Fishermens Cooperative.

Irish Fish Producers meet with Director General of the European Commissions Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG Mare).

The fishing organisations presented a united front, engaging with the EU marine and fisheries officials at the highest levels, says ODonnell. We met the Fisheries Committee of the European Parliament (Pech) and the Director General of the European Commissions Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG Mare).

Mr ODonnell says the team outlined ways of allocating the uncaught quotas of other EU states for species such as langoustines and monkfish, to Ireland. We support calls for a sensible mechanism for an equitable redistribution of all the annual uncaught EU fish quota in EU waters. We acknowledge that any such redistribution would take account of the quota rights of each of these member states.

At present, non-EU fishing vessels can fish large volumes of pelagic fish on Irelands west coast, based on annual access agreements negotiated to benefit other EU States. At the same time, the Irish fleet finds itself tied up at port, hindered from catching these same fish by low quotas. This needs to be addressed in a meaningful way so that our share of the important catch is more equitable. `

Irish fishing industry representatives and Sinn Fin delegations outside the Parliament Building

The delegation said the quotas transferred to the UK under BrexitsTrade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) were inequitable. In particular, Irish fishing vessels were excluded from traditional fishing grounds in the waters around Rockall. So, we made the case that quotas needed to be adjusted to rebalance long term losses and to restore access to these areas.

He says fishing organisations are united in a call for an urgent review of how the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is implemented. In particular, we want changes in how the annual quota of fish is allocated to the Irish fishing fleet and to rebalance the significant Brexit losses. We also believe allocations should be based on having greater rights to fish in our own Zones . This would be more democratic, and reduce the carbon footprint of EU fishing vessels, as they would travel shorter distances. It would also strengthen the economic and social linkage between those catching the fish and their coastal communities.

The IFPO say its also time now to examine diversification opportunities and allocate a quota for Atlantic bluefin tuna. Its proven to be in abundance and available on the West Coast within the Irish EEZ and could be worth 150 million annually in revenues to the Irish fishing and Tourism Sectors. This initiative could also impact favourably on the carbon footprint in terms of reducing long transit routes of distant water fleets to these waters from countries such as Japan, large vessels that travel halfway around the globe to harvest this high valued tuna fishery.

The fishing industry delegation to Brussels was also supported by key fishermen stakeholders from Greencastle, Galway and Clogherhead with first hand contributions to the process. It was also attended by Oliver Mc Bride of The Fishing Daily

The Sinn Fein delegation was arranged and led by MEP Chris MacManus and TD Padraig MacLochainn, and supported by TDs Rose Conway Walsh, Johnny Mythen & Pa Daly. The SF team also included Cllr Tom Cunningham, Clogherhead and Cllr Conor Mc Guinness, West Waterford as well as area representatives Clare O Callaghan Cork SW, and Louis O Hara Galway East.

Mr Colm O Silleabhin, Irish Permanent Representative and EU Marine attach, also attended some meetings.

The fishing industry delegation also met several Irish MEPS including Fine Gaels Colum Markey, a member of the fisheries committee, who has previously hosted a number of fishing industry meetings in Ireland and Brussels. Other MEPs they met on this trip included Fianna Fil MEP Barry Andrews, and Independent MEPS, Clare Daly and Mick Wallace.

The Commission officials took note of the submissions and undertook to have an additional follow up meeting in Ireland.

Other nations catch almost twice as much as the Irish in our waters IFPO was last modified: June 9th, 2022 by Staff Writer

Read more here:

Other nations catch almost twice as much as the Irish in our waters IFPO - Donegal Daily