Tax Time Tips

From Melbourne Accountant George Kontominas

Money mistakes made this month can potentially cost you plenty at tax time says George Kontominas, the Managing Partner of Dendra Accounting Group. Kontominas was nominated for two individual awards in the prestigious Australian Accounting Awards, the top awards for the Accounting Industry.

“Errors in June can create financial pain — particularly around the timing of tax-deductible payments and selling assets.” said Kontominas. A failure to tax plan will delay tax-deductible expenses. For example, with investment or work-related expenses, delaying them until July means waiting an extra year to get a slice of that money back from the taxman.

Good tax planning is also good business. Retailers in June promote tax deductions as part of their end-of-financial-year sales, which is good for people buying, particularly for business, who have a generous $20,000 capital expense limit per item for immediate tax write-offs.

“But tax deductible expenses only make sense if they are for something your business actually needs” says Kontominas.

Remember a tax deduction only gives you back your marginal tax rate, not the entire expense.
Taxpayers should be mindful of the opportunity of timing purchases for their business. May is your last chance to do strategic tax planning. It’s a good time to make strategic purchases that will set your business up to compete more effectively in the year ahead because the expense can be claimed this financial year instead of the following year.

Kontominas also has some advice for individuals. “People buying items for work or investment properties don’t have the same adfvantage as businesses.” he said “They cannot claim more than $300 instantly, their purchases have to be written off over time.”

“Another thing to watch is superannuation limits. These need to be checked during June, particularly for personal tax-deductible contributions made by business owners which must not go over contributions caps. Mistakes here have to be fixed and can be costly”. He said

Any business owner who would like specialist information on Managing tax for Manufacturers can attend a free event on June 15.

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TROUBLED WATERS

watersSo in the end, a day that began looking like a total disaster for the Democratic National Convention led to an evening that was not disastrous in the least — an evening, in fact, that might have saved not just the week but also the election.

Okay, it’s way too soon to be sure about all of that. But earlier in the day, Bernie Sanders supporters were in the streets chanting the GOP convention’s slogan — “Lock her up!” — about the woman Democrats were about to nominate, Hillary Clinton. The outgoing chair of the party got roundly booed at a breakfast given by her home-state delegation, and Sanders himself was booed when he exhorted followers to work and vote for Clinton. Early speakers in the Wells Fargo Center faced a cacophony of catcalls.

There was no way to go but up, and the ascent was launched not by a politician but by comedian Sarah Silverman. She told the assembled delegates that she was a Sanders supporter who would now vote for Clinton “with gusto.” And in an apparent ad lib — when she and Sen. Al Franken (Minn.) were asked to fill time before a performance by Paul Simon — Silverman addressed the “Bernie or bust” crowd directly: “You’re being ridiculous.”

Earlier speakers had been patronizing toward the Sanders crowd. Clinton surrogates did interviews explaining that many 0f his supporters were new to the political process and perhaps, I don’t know, had not fully grasped the whole winning vs. losing concept. Silverman was having none of that. I got over it, she effectively said, and you should too.

As if to gild the lily, Simon chose to sing “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” It’s hard to think of many other songs more likely, in just about any setting, to increase the peace.

Then came a lineup of powerhouse speakers. Sen. Cory Booker (N.J.) gave a good speech. First lady Michelle Obama gave a better speech, focusing not on Trump’s failings but on Clinton’s virtues. Next came what was billed as the night’s keynote speech, a stem-winder by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) that pushed Democratic voters’ every button.

There was some heckling during the first part of Warren’s speech, but nothing like the rancorous racket heard earlier in the day. The temperature had cooled.

Finally, Sanders himself emerged to a hero’s welcome. He delivered what, for Democrats, was the money line: “Hillary Clinton must become the next president of the United States.” He cited Clinton’s many priorities and policies that agree with his and said “the election must be about bringing our people together and not dividing us up.”

It is no secret that he and Clinton disagree on some issues, he said, but there was a “coming together” in drafting the party platform. Translation: You won a lot, Sanders people. Take yes for an answer.

By the end of the night, it seemed they just might.

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Botanic Gardens – Not Just a Pretty Picnic Spot

Been to the Botanic Gardens Lately? It’s more than just a nice spot to
catch up with a gathbotanic-gardensering, there’s a variety of activities on offer for young and old. Here’s a sampling of what’s available or for more information head to their website https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au

Botanical illustration beginners workshop with Mali Moir 

This intensive four-day course provides an introduction to botanical art via pencil and watercolour. Students will begin to develop skills in outline drawing, foreshortening, tonal work, rendering of surfaces, basic colour work and paint application.
The cost of the course includes equipment to be used during the workshop – drawing materials, paint, watercolour paper and brushes.

Suitable for adults and teenagers. Presented by the Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
botanical-gardens-watercolourMonday 11 to Thursday 14 July
10am to 4pm each day

Whirling Room Studio, GMT Building
Melbourne Gardens
Getting Here

$399 adult
$342 Friends’ members
Bookings / Enquiries

T 03 9650 6398
E botanicart@frbgmelb.org.au

Bookings required, cancellation and refund policy applies.
Book online at rbgfriendsmelbourne.org or by telephoning the Friends’ office.

Plant Craft Cottage Demonstration Days

Watch and ask questions as members of the working groups demonstrate their plant craft skills.

Presented by the Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne at the Plant Craft Cottage.

basketryNatural Dye – Wednesday 6 July
Pot Pourri – Friday 8 July
Fibre – Tuesday 12 July
Basketry – Wednesday 20 July
Plant Card – Thursday 21 July
Natural Dye – Wednesday 3 August
Fibre – Tuesday 9 August
Pot Pourri – Friday 12 August
Basketry – Wednesday 17 August
Plant Card – Thursday 18 August

When: 10.30am to 2pm
Where: Plant Craft Cottage near H gate Melbourne Gardens
Cost: FREE

Children’s Garden

botanic_childrens_gardenThe Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is the perfect place for kids who love getting their hands dirty in the garden. There’s lots of fun places to explore including the Ruin Garden, the Meeting Place (which has a water feature that sprays up out of the ground in summer!), a Wetland Area, Bamboo Forest, The Gorge, Plant Tunnel, Kitchen Garden (full of yummy vegetables!) and The Rill (a gentle waterway that runs through the Garden).

The Children’s Garden is an interactive educational environment in which children of all ages, backgrounds, physical abilities and cultures can play, explore and discover the natural world. It features plants, water, structures and pathways that reflect Melbourne’s changing seasons. The garden has been designed to intrigue, teach and excite children from a very young age about the importance of conservation and the environment. It is scaled specifically for children to create a sense of ownership, care and responsibility for the environment.

Plenty to explore in and around the Children’s Garden with our ’50 things for kids to do’ checklist (PDF – 1.82 kB) or pick up a free copy at the Visitor Centre. The Children’s Garden is accessible to anybody including wheelchair users, visitors with walking frames and parents with prams.childrens-garden-activities

The Children’s Garden is closed for its annual rest from Monday 11 July and will reopen on Saturday 3 September. Each year the Children’s Garden takes a break in winter for regular maintenance and restoration for eight weeks following the end of July school holidays.

Open 10am–sunset Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays; 10am–sunset seven days a week during Victorian State School holidays. Closed to the public Monday–Tuesday during Victorian State School terms for booked school groups only
Rill (stream): 10am–4pm daily
Spiral fountains: 10am–4pm on days when the temperature is forecast to exceed 25 degrees. The fountains do not operate when the forecast is less than 25 degrees.

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Every breath you take

My reason for sending ‘my story’ to talkhealth (rather than to only the Aspergillosis website) was in an attempt to reach those unfortunates who have yet to be diagnosed and, of course GPs, as personally I have suffered these symptoms for twenty to twenty-five years (if not all my life!). I also know of others in the Group who have had similar experiences. So, I’m really pleased to have this further opportunity. This condition is referred to as ‘rare’ and I don’t dispute that per se, but based on my own experience and that of others, I consider it may be less rare and rather – under-diagnosed. When I described the symptoms as being ‘flu-like, with constant coughing, etc., on reflection, it was a somewhat under-estimated account, particularly in later years, as the fungal ball continued to grow in my lung. Having experienced influenza, bronchitis, pleurisy and pneumonia (the condition left me ‘open’ to every possible virus), in my experience, the effects are far worse than any/all of these.

I’ll be Watching You …

catOn my diagnosis being confirmed, and as there is no cure for ABPA, I was advised that I would be continually monitored by Royal Derby Hospital for the rest of my life – the plan being for six-weekly consultations. I was very fortunate to respond really well to the six months of steroid treatment as, had this not been the case, then I would have had to take other anti-fungal medications which, apparently, have even more serious side effects. I was again very fortunate in that I was able to ‘taper off’ the medications without any adverse effects, and now take steroids by inhaler twice daily. The consultants were equally pleased and my monitoring was reduced to three-monthly visits. As one appointment was made for 9.00 am (impossible for me on account of the distance involved), my follow-up appointment was delayed until six months.

At my last consultation in May, again they were very pleased with progress, as I had by now been off steroid tablets for six months – so much so, that it was suggested that I could either be discharged, or have annual check-ups. Obviously, I was delighted that I’d done so well that discharge could be considered, but the delight very quickly turned to total panic, as the Royal Derby has been/ is my ‘life-line’ and I have complete confidence in the team – so, annual check-ups it is – providing I continue to do well. From life-long monitoring to suggestion of discharge in one year? Should my condition deteriorate, the only option is to go through my surgery and for them to contact the hospital. The GP who sought investigation works just a few half-days per week, so should I fall ill outside of her contracted hours, I feel I shall be in a very vulnerable position.

As I understand it, it appears that the medication has ‘dumbed down’ my allergic overreaction to spores and that the inhaled steroids are keeping open my airways. So, I’m hoping that I’ll have two to three years in remission, failing contracting any viruses. Of course, there’s no guarantees and we are all different.

Every Step You Take ….

Following previous ‘bouts’, I had always ‘bounced back’ (perhaps not ‘bounced’, but eventually returned to ‘my normal’) – this time I haven’t. I’ve reported several times on my tiredness / fatigue symptoms (particularly following the least exertion) and difficulty walking any distance (legs feeling like dead weights), but I’m advised that it is doubtful that this is related to ABPA, and it’s suggested I see a GP. I have also had three incidents of falling down (not tripping or fainting) just so weak that I fall. Probably because of my experiences, I fear I’ll be told there’s a name for it but again no cure, so meanwhile, in the interest of expediency, I’ve named it myself – Falling Down Syndrome (FDS)! As with all my strange symptoms, it can strike at any time, so I’m finding it difficult to plan things, as it’s not just some good days, some bad – it changes within minutes!

Every Move You Make …

My most recent fall was in the bedroom, when I started to fall and, in a misguided attempt at a soft landing on the bed, did a sterling pirouette (unfortunately with only upper half of body) crashed into the television table, the television almost went through the window and – I crash landed on the floor! Had it ‘gone viral’ I may have made a fortune! So – massive bruises to my upper right arm and the following day, I realised that the half-pirouette had caused back injury, exacerbating walking difficulties. So I now take a fold-up walking stick when out, in case I feel weak and there’s nowhere to sit or lean, and have actually used it twice recently. It had such a positive effect on people (standing immediately to let me sit down, etc.) that we’ve decided it’s not a walking stick, but a magic wand!!

Oh Can’t You See – I Belong To Me ….

Members of the support group all appear to have very differing levels of symptoms and, therefore, treatments. However, some are very generous in sharing experiences and knowledge, and I acted on the very helpful information regarding house mites not being partial to wool, investing in a new bed (mattress half wool), wool duvet and ‘anti-allergy’ pillows – not sure how they can be termed ‘anti-allergy’, as the manufacturers may not know about us! All good – my sleeping is much better and I have another reason to be glad I’m single, as some who have partners have mentioned that they sleep separately because of the nocturnal disturbances this condition causes!

Another item of discussion that I related to was mention of how we are perceived, which has been a bit of a concern to me also – I think having ‘my story’ circulated has possibly been of (un-looked for) help. Of course, I don’t expect everyone to understand my strange condition, as I have some difficulty myself!

I’m still steering clear of gardening as much as I can – and am often told by friends that I mustn’t garden (for sure, disturbed soil, rotten leaves, composts, and places with mould or dust, for example, London underground, building sites, etc. are definitely to be avoided) – but I think what they’re not quite getting is the fact that spores are airborne, so there’s no avoiding them completely – it’s every breath I take!

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Protecting The Innocent

gavel

gavel

I’ve always been known as a tough-on-crime, pro-law enforcement individual, and I still am. During my years as a North Carolina State Senator, I vigorously advocated for the death penalty. As a superior court judge, I presided over trials where the death penalty seemed like the only suitable punishment for the heinous crimes that had been committed. Finally, as a Justice, and then as Chief Justice, on the Supreme Court of North Carolina, I cast my vote at appropriate times to uphold that harsh and most final sentence.

After decades of experience with the law, I have seen too much, and what I have seen has impacted my perspective. First, my faith in the criminal justice system, which had always been so steady, was shaken by the revelation that in some cases innocent men and women were being convicted of serious crimes. The increased availability of DNA testing in the early 2000s highlighted this problem so clearly to me. I spent the next decade working with others to devise systems and develop task forces dedicated to the prevention of wrongful convictions in North Carolina. I take, I believe, justifiable pride in the fact that North Carolina established the first state Innocence Inquiry Commission in the country. Numerous legal experts publicly acknowledge that the safeguards that have been implemented in North Carolina are wildly successful. However, one thing we did not adequately address is that individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and other impairments are more likely to be wrongfully convicted. The case of Henry McCollum and Leon Brown makes that point vividly clear. McCollum was 19 and Brown was 15 when they confessed to the rape and murder of 11-year-old Sabrina Buie. Both men are intellectually disabled, which greatly increased their susceptibility to false confession. As a result, they spent 31 years in prison, including time on death row, for a crime they didn’t commit.

The death penalty is not and should not be available as a punishment for all homicides. In Kennedy v. Louisiana, the Court found that under the Eighth Amendment, capital punishment “must be limited to those offenders … whose extreme culpability makes them the most deserving of execution.” Both the crime itself, and the offender, must be deemed the so-called “worst of the worst.” The Court has categorically barred persons with intellectual disability and juveniles from execution because they have diminished culpability, and defendants are also allowed to introduce mitigating evidence to demonstrate impairments. However, I’ve seen how these safeguards can fail to adequately protect individuals with significant impairments.

Last year in America, over half of the individuals that were executed had severe mental impairments. Too much reliance is put on jurors to identify those who are the “worst of the worst.” As Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina, I was responsible for assessing the personal culpability of defendants in capital cases to ensure that the punishment would be applied appropriately, so I understand just how difficult this task can be.

In order for mitigation evidence to be considered it must be collected and introduced at trial. In states where indigent defense systems are woefully underfunded, as it is in North Carolina, or where standards of representation are inadequate, this evidence regularly goes undiscovered.

Additionally, a number of impairments are difficult to measure. For intellectual disability, we can use an IQ score to approximate impairment, but no similar numeric scale exists to determine just how mentally ill someone is, or how brain trauma may have impacted their culpability. Finally, even when evidence of diminished culpability exists, some jurors have trouble emotionally separating the characteristic of the offender from the details of the crime.

The categorical exclusions for juveniles under the age of 18 and those with intellectual disability are simply drawn too narrowly to encompass everyone who has diminished culpability. These categorical exclusions are particularly inadequate when multiple impairments exist. Take for instance the case of Lamondre Tucker, whose case will be conferenced by the Supreme Court this week. Tucker was convicted of murdering his pregnant girlfriend in Caddo Parish, Louisiana. He was just 18 years old at the time of the offense, and was repeating his senior year of high school. He has an IQ score of 74. Taken together, these factors indicate that he is most likely just as impaired as those individuals that the Court has determined it is unconstitutional to execute. Yet, because of a variety of systemic factors, including ineffective legal representation, Tucker sits on death row. Ten former State Supreme Court justices signed an Amicus brief last month questioning the constitutionality of Tucker’s death sentence due to his impairments. Today I join my colleague’s call.

After spending years trying to instill confidence in the criminal justice system, I’ve come to realize that there are certain adverse economic conditions that have made the system fundamentally unfair for some defendants. These systemic problems continue to lead to the conviction of the innocent, as well as those individuals for whom the death penalty would be constitutionally inappropriate, regardless of the crime. Our inability to determine who possesses sufficient culpability to warrant a death sentence draws into question whether the death penalty can ever be constitutional under the Eighth Amendment. I have come to believe that it probably cannot.

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Healesville Sanctuary

In our quest to find great destinations around Australia, the GoGet Melbourne team ventured to the wonderful Healesville Sanctuary over the weekend to get up close with some great Australian animals.

The Healesville Sanctuary is a great and easy day trip for the whole family. Alternatively, it can be part of a larger weekend trip to one of Victoria’s many wine regions: the Yarra Valley.  If you are choosing a romantic getaway in wine country, don’t miss the Healesville Sanctuary just because you haven’t brought the kids along; even adults can have some fun at the zoo!

Getting to the Healesville Sanctuary and planning your day

bdee876438-590x421

The Healesville Sanctuary is located about 65 kilometres (one hour) from the Melbourne CBD.  This means you can book any GoGet car for the day and get to the sanctuary and back without going over the 150 included kilometres on a daily rental.  The short one hour journey is also perfect with younger kids in mind.

We were at Healesville Sanctuary for about three or four hours, which was quite leisurely and allowed us to see everything. So if you leave the house mid-morning, you’ll have more than enough time to get there, see everything, and be home by dinner!

That being said, try to plan your day around some of the great activities below.

Healesville Sanctuary Highlights

Plan ahead and check out the highlights section of the zoo’s website. It may not be possible to see every presentation and feeding, but you’ll be able to see many of them if you think ahead. As the animals do need to rest between presentations, they are limited.

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Tales from Platypus Creek is a must see presentation when at the Healesville Sanctuary. For one thing, it’s a chance to learn about some great aquatic animals! The extra bonus is that it’s quite difficult to see a platypus in the general enclosure, so this is your chance to get a good look at one swimming about.

Spirits of the Sky is another great performance where zoo-goers get to see many of Australia’s birds of prey as well as a myriad of other Australian birds. If you miss this one, though, there are plenty of opportunities to see many birds up close.

Bird Houses

Parrots, Lyrebirds, High Country Birds, Woodland Birds! Many of the areas you can see birds are open so you can walk amongst the birds and get up close and personal! Of course the birds aren’t supposed to get out, so be careful with the doors as you enter.healesville-sanctuary-7-590x394

Our favourite was the “Land of Parrots” as the birds seemed to have the most personality and were the most curious about human contact. We were also lucky enough to have a casual chat with some of the keepers here and learn a bit more about our feathered friends.

Just a word of caution at all bird houses: yes, birds can fly and they like trees, but some hang out on the ground. Tread carefully and don’t let the kids get too excited.

So many other animals

The ride home is time to discuss (or argue?) about which was your favourite animal to see. Everybody will have their own opinion and their own favourite.

Personally, we preferred the wallabies of the kangaroos (they were cuter!). The dingos were another surprising highlight, but mostly because the group of us who went were “dog people” and there was a lot of surprising facts to learn.

But before this turns into a list of every animal, let’s just say they were all great and interesting. The Healesville Sanctuary is a fun day out for all, and it’s definitely worth the trip.

So go ahead and book yourself a Toyota Yaris for a quick trip with your partner, or a nice big Toyota RAV4 and take the whole family. It’s tons of fun.

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Dove’s cry but reigning Prince has a plan

dove

 

 

 

I’ll never forget the time, about a year before my husband and I were married, that I announced, “Prince is so sexy!” I made my bold declaration well within earshot of my future mother-in-law. It was a different time then. We were in Jackson, Mississippi and the year was 1983. She was shocked. When I tell my adult children this story now, they are surprised to learn that in the early 80s, 20 year-old white girls didn’t go around telling their southern belle mother-in laws they were crushing on an African-American musician. Who was her son marrying?

Just a normal girl.

If you don’t believe me, watch the coverage of Prince’s passing all over the news this week. People of every age, gender, race, creed and color are mourning the loss of this talented musician. I am in good company. A lot of people dug Prince. A lot.

My husband suggested yesterday that I write a blog about Prince. I dismissed it as a bad idea immediately.

‘I don’t even know him…’ I reasoned to myself. I write about people I know. That wouldn’t seem right. Matter settled.

Until about an hour ago, when I was working out at the Y. I settled my ear buds in, pushed GO on the stair-climber and hit SHUFFLE on my music. The music blared, and all of a sudden, without forewarning, Prince was in my ears. I felt a thud in my heart when I remembered he was gone. I turned his song up extra loud and climbed.

And sweated and climbed and listened. And thought about how I don’t know Prince and couldn’t possibly write about him. Then I wondered what it means to actually know someone.

Is it possible listen to a song like, “When Doves Cry,” a million times (a song Prince purportedly wrote in less than 2 hours for the album Purple Rain, released in 1984) and not know the genius heart that beats behind that piece of art? The lyrics and the poetry that speaks to so many; a metaphor for a relationship that yearns for perfection, were it not for all the pain.

I started thinking about a recent visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. I was mesmerized by so many of the works on display there. Spellbound like everyone else by The Old Masters and their proteges. I felt as though the messages they were sending through their work resonated in my soul. And in some way, I was connected to each artist through their art. The way I was supposed to be. The way the artists intended.

And then I thought about all the books I’ve read through the years. I thought about the kinship I felt with each and every author and writer; as if we were old friends. If I ever chanced to meet these people in the flesh, I would surprise them by my overt familiarity. I would dive right in, no need for introductions – picking up where the book left off. No need to back track or catch me up. I’m already there…

…I read your book. I stared at your painting for an hour. I played your music over and over and over again for more than 30 years.

I know you at least well enough to know I’ll miss you. You sexy thing, You.

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The Big Freeze

freeze

The Big Freeze, which is also known as the Heat Death, is one of the possible scenarios predicted by scientists in which the Universe may end. It is a direct consequence of an ever expanding universe. The most telling evidences, such as those that indicate an increasing rate of expansion in regions farthest from us, support this theory. As such, it is the most widely accepted model pertaining to our universe’s ultimate fate.

The term Heat Death comes from the idea that, in an isolated system (the Universe being a very big example), the entropy will continuously increase until it reaches a maximum value. The moment that happens, heat in the system will be evenly distributed, allowing no room for usable energy (or heat) to exist – hence the term ‘heat death’. That means, mechanical motion within the system will no longer be possible.

This kind of ending is a stark contrast to what other scientists believe will be the Universe’s alternative ultimate fate, known as the Big Crunch. The Big Crunch, if it does happen, will be characterized by a collapse of unimaginably gargantuan proportions and will eventually culminate into an immensely massive black hole. The Big Freeze, on the other hand, will happen with less fanfare since everything will wind down to a cold silent halt.

To determine which ending is most possible, scientists need to gather data regarding the density, composition, and even the shape of the Universe.

For example, if the density is found to be lower than what is known as the critical density, then a continuous expansion will ensue. If the density is equal to the critical density, then the Universe will expand forever but at a decreasing rate. Finally, if the density is found to be greater than the critical density, the Universe will eventually stop expanding and then collapse.

It is therefore clear that, for a Big Freeze to occur, the density must be less than the critical density.

Accurate measurements made by the WMAP (Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe), which picks up cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR), indicate a density that is much less than the critical density. This is very consistent with observations at the outer regions of the Universe; that being, increasing outward velocities of galaxies as they are further from us.

Through these observations as well as the density measurements, more scientists are inclined to believe that the most possible ending is that of a Big Freeze.

Articles on the big freeze are so hot. It’s a good thing we’ve got a nice collection of them here in Universe Today. Here are two of them:

  • Dark Energy Could be a Breakdown of Einstein’s Theory
  • No “Big Rip” in our Future: Chandra Provides Insights Into Dark Energy

Here are links from NASA about the big freeze:

  • What is the Ultimate Fate of the Universe?
  • Origin and Destiny of the Universe

Tired eyes? Let your ears help you learn for a change. Here are some episodes from Astronomy Cast that just might suit your taste:

  • Multiple Big Bangs, Satellite Collisions and the Size of the Universe
  • Ice in Space, Expansion of the Universe, and Death from the Skies
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Why men pay for sex?

What makes a man sleep with a sex worker? We asked 3 escorts to quiz their clients

sex

Prime Minister David Cameron may have described his Culture Secretary John Whittingdale as “a single man who is entitled to a private life” but it hasn’t stopped a media frenzy over the latest revelations that he had a relationship with a sex worker.

Although the relationship occurred before Whittingdale was made a minister last year ( he says he ended it when he found out about her line of work!) critics claim trying to keep the relationship under wraps may have clouded his judgement about press regulation. He was chair of the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee, which was instrumental in the phone-hacking scandal.

Perhaps Cameron’s nonchalance about the whole thing is the real point here. After all, research reveals that one in 20 men has willingly slept with a sex worker anyway.  But why do men visit escorts, and is it just about the sex itself? We asked three sex workers to quiz their regular clients. Here’s what they said.

ESCORT 1

Claire, 31, works out of her home  in Bedfordshire and sees up to 20 clients a week by advertising her services online. She started ten years ago, after her former husband stopped paying maintenance and she found herself struggling to raise their two children alone.

CLIENT 1

Steve is 39 and lives in London. He’s married with three teenage children and works in communications. He has been visiting Claire for four years. She describes him as friendly and kind-hearted, some­one who would do anything for anyone.

Claire: Why do you come to see me?

Steve: I find my job very stressful. I work long hours and it is incredibly high­ pressured. It would be great if I could go home to a quiet house and relax with my wife, but the reality is that the house is always noisy, my wife is usually busy cooking dinner, and I really feel as if no one even notices that I’m home.  If I come to you, it is the complete opposite: your house is beautiful and well organized, you have a lovely garden, and the general atmosphere is one of peace and calm. I feel like I am the complete focus of your attention. I can talk to you, and you listen to my every word.  And when we go to bed, you do everything you can to pleasure me.

Do you still enjoy sex with your wife?

She lost interest in sex years ago. It’s sad and I suppose we should do something about it, like going to a sex therapist, but it’s something she really doesn’t like talking about.

How does having sex differ between me and your wife?

Firstly, it’s much more exciting and imaginative with you. My wife would never dream of asking me what I like. She sometimes behaves as if she’s doing me a favour by having sex with me. But I do love her, and don’t blame her for saying she feels tired all the time. I know she works hard too, and she hardly ever asks me for help with the shopping or cleaning.

When did you first see a prostitute?

I started going to strip clubs with my colleagues from work years ago. I really liked it and found it very relaxing. And then a girl asked me if I’d like extra services afterwards, and it took off from there. Of course, my wife doesn’t know about any of this – if she ever found out she would leave me immediately. I couldn’t bear to lose her. Occasionally I have nightmares about my teenage sons discovering what I do, which would probably be worse than my wife finding out.  No one in the house would ever speak to me again.

Will you ever stop seeing me?

I still really enjoy it. I can’t imagine my life without coming to see you. I’d definitely suffer withdrawal  symptoms.  So I guess it is an addiction.

Where do you tell your partner you are when you come to see me?

I just tell her I’ve got to stay late at the office, which is often true. Either that or I tell her I’m going for a drink with one of the lads and then get them to back me up afterwards. I don’t have to tell my friends what I’m up to, although we’d all cover up for one another if it came to it.sex1

And how do you feel afterwards?

Great. Every single time. You make me feel so good about myself, like I have really pleased you, too. I feel fine, very happy and relaxed after seeing you. And I don’t feel guilty, because it’s not the same relationship as the one I have with my wife. I know it’s crazy, but in my head I don’t feel as if I’m doing anything wrong.

Do you care about me?

Very much indeed. I worry about you a lot. I trust you implicitly – I wouldn’t come to you otherwise. I know you’d never let me down, and I feel I can talk to you about anything. If l won the lottery, I’d pay off your mortgage like a shot.

ESCORT 2

Sabia, 32, left Trinidad 13 years ago to marry her husband in London. When their relationship broke down three years later, she found herself struggling to bring up two children on her own. She admits that escorting has not only helped her financially, but has made her a stronger and more confident person. She sees around 12 clients a week at their homes or in hotels, and relies on word of mouth to get custom.

CLIENT 2

Ian, 43, a researcher, is happily married with two children. Sabia describes him as easy to talk to with a lovely deep voice and soft northern accent.

Sabia: Why do you come to see me?

Ian: My wife and I have a very good marriage. The problem is, I need more sex than she gives me. I don’t want to have an affair, as that would feel like too much of an emotional betrayal. So coming to you seems like a good compromise – a way of getting what I need without letting my wife down. If I didn’t come to you, I would probably turn to adultery, which would hurt her even more and probably end our marriage. I justify what I do by reminding myself that I work hard all day, so coming to see you is my reward for being a good husband and father the rest of the time.

Do you still enjoy sex with your wife?

We’ve been together many, many years, and our sex life is loving and sensitive, but it’s usually all over in about

20 minutes. I know that’s not my wife’s fault – it just gets like that when you’ve been with the same person for years – but it is just not enough for me. If anything, my sex life with my wife has improved since I’ve been seeing you. I feel sexier.

How does having sex with me and your wife differ?

I think the most honest thing to say is that it’s just different. You’re a very different person, and there’s an added quality that comes with that. It’s who you are as a person that makes the difference. Who you are and what you are makes the experience fascinating.

What gave you the idea to pay for sex?

When I turned 40, my friends bought me a certificate for a massage at a sports centre. I loved it – it was very sensual. That led me to find people who gave more of an intimate service, so to speak.

How do you feel about it now?

I feel liberated about it. It’s a very individual thing. I feel really good after we’ve been together- nice and warm and buzzing.

Where do you tell your partner you are when you come to me?

I only come to you when I’m working away from home, so I don’t have to tell her anything. I turn my mobile off while we’re together and, if she’s called, I’ll ring back when we’re done and tell her I met a business colleague for a meal.

Do you trust me?

That’s why I agreed to do this interview. I really care about you and I hope that comes over when we meet. While respecting your right to a private life on the grounds that it’s all part of our business relationship, I genuinely regard you as a really nice person.sex2

ESCORT 3

Maria*, 27, lives in Glasgow and has been working as an escort for the past three years to pay for her studies as a homeo­ path. She caters for 15 clients a week and advertises her services on the Internet and in magazines. She is currently saving up to open her own clinic.

CLIENT 3

David, who is 33, runs his own interior design business in Glasgow. He recently split up with his long-term girlfriend, Lisa*, but has been going to see Maria every week since January 2009. Maria admits that David often takes her out for meals and occasionally buys her flowers or small gifts.

Maria: What’s the appeal of having sex with a prostitute?

David: It’s just something I’ve got used to doing every week, a habit I enjoy, and it’s a way of satisfying my physical needs when I’m not in an emotional relationship. I know I’m a good-looking guy and could pull if l wanted to, but then I’d have to deal with the hassle and demands of having a regular girlfriend.

So it’s just about sex?

Yes, well, not only that. We don’t always have sex, do we? We went to the cinema together last week. It is about you as a person as well. I didn’t originally mean it to be like that when I first came to you, but I have to admit that we have built up a kind of relationship between us. It is not as easy for me to separate the emotional side from the physical as I thought it would be.

Would you say you have feelings for me?

Yes, I like you a lot. If I didn’t, I’d go and look for someone else. We’re friends. You’re not moody or difficult like some of the women I’ve dated. About four years ago, I met someone I really cared about and ended up getting hurt. After that, I made up my mind that I would never let that happen again.

Was sex with your girlfriend enjoyable?

You mean my ex, Lisa? I never felt as close to her as I do to you. I would like to think that I would stop coming to see you if I did find myself in a serious relationship with a woman, or was thinking of getting married. But I’m beginning to suspect that I would find it very hard not to see you anymore.

How is having sex with me different from when you used to have sex with Lisa?

This is going to sound strange, but it was just sex between her and me; I didn’t enjoy it half as much as I do with you. I could never tell when she was enjoying it, either – while, when I’m with you, I can see the pleasure on your face and it makes me feel terrific. The only good thing about sleeping with her was that she didn’t make me wear a condom, and you do.
When did you first visit a prostitute?

I just wanted to see what prostitutes were like and so I went after a stag night one weekend. The girl I got was nice, like you, so I just kept coming after that.

And how do you feel about it now?

The great thing about it is that I’m always excited when I’m about to see you. It’s my treat – much better than going out for a beer with my mates. I’m glad it was your number I chose in the magazine. I’m lucky.

How do you feel when you leave me?

I feel good about myself, and generally much more relaxed. I enjoy coming here a lot. I wish I could come and spend the whole day with you or, ideally, take you away for a whole weekend. But I could never do that because I could never afford your prices. A few hundred quid for a few hours is just about as much as I can pay.

Do you trust me?

I think I do. You’ve always treated me well and I like to see us as really good friends. I hope that’s right.

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Gallery: Iditarod dog sled race

dogAlaska is so warm this year, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race had to have snow brought in to Anchorage to make the ceremonial opening race happen.

The Alaska Railroad is hauling 300 cubic yards of snow from Fairbanks to Anchorage on Thursday for the opening ceremony on Saturday.
Even with the 15 truckloads of imported snow, the route for the ceremonial kickoff race was shortened to 3 miles, as opposed to the usual 11 miles. (The course for the race itself is about 1,000 miles.)

City of Anchorage personnel tried to figure out a way to keep the full 11-mile course, but with the warm weather lingering, it wasn’t possible this year, Stan Hooley, CEO of the Iditarod Trail Committee said in a news release.

“A persistent ridge of high pressure over Alaska in January and February has kept snow totals low and temperatures warmer than normal across much of the state,” CNN meteorologist Sean Morris said.

Snow fell on just one day in February, making the total snowfall just 1.8 inches for the month. Anchorage had the fourth warmest February on record this year. This season, Anchorage has only picked up 27.6 inches of snow compared to a seasonal average of 60 inches, according to CNN affiliate KTVA.
This is the third year in a row that the lack of snow has disrupted the Iditarod. In 2014, low levels of snow on parts of the trail caused injuries to mushers. Last year, the low levels caused the race to move 225 miles north to Fairbanks.

Cody Strathe, a musher in the 2016 Iditarod race, told CNN that the lack of snow is not stopping him from participating in the 1,000-mile race. Since moving to Alaska in 2001, he said, winters have changed drastically and training and racing sled dogs has become more difficult.

“A smart musher will train on all conditions throughout the year and know how to handle low snow conditions,” he said. “Sled dog racing will have to adapt to this trend of low snow and warmer winters.”

Organizers are expecting 85 teams with more than 1,000 dogs to participate in this year’s race.

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