People had already grown accustomed to Soviet rule, and on the topic of "informing" - which, although it remained taboo, would crop up in conversation from time to time when it was on people's minds - it became known that the local authorities, in exchange for reports, however true or fabricated, had been supplying informers with food.
It turns out that 8 April is also observed as International Roma (Gypsy) People's Day. "Gypsy" is a designation for more than 80 ethnic groups worldwide who live according to a shared code of Roma law. On 8 April 1971, the first World Romani Congress was held in London, where the flag (blue and green, with a red wheel in the centre) and anthem were adopted.
Today is World Health Day. It has been observed since 1950, and since 1995 each World Health Day has had a sub-theme. This year, on 7 April 2015, the focus is on food safety.
Unlike old incandescent bulbs, where the only determining factor was wattage (W), with LED things are a little more complex - there are several parameters worth knowing and considering when buying an LED bulb.
Continuing the series of articles on words of wisdom from various peoples, this time we head decidedly eastward. As is well known, Easterners have achieved many insights on matters of life harmony, peace, accord with nature, self-discipline and respect between generations.
I decided to compile words of wisdom from various peoples - sayings that not only characterise a particular nation's outlook on life, but also vividly reflect its mentality. This time, the richness of sayings from Italy. From such a vital people as the Italians - passionate, vibrant and distinctive - each of us can learn something.
I want to share today's discovery - two online tools (triangulation tools) where an ordinary image or photograph can be transformed into a stylised drawing, in which all colour and shading areas are split into larger and smaller triangles while preserving the overall image. This time, a purely amateur approach - upload the chosen photo and adjust the level of detail using the tool.
The gong therapy evening was led by Marija Mežecka. She warmly welcomed everyone like an attentive hostess and invited them to settle on small rugs with various little cushions and blankets on the floor. At first there were pleasant nature sounds - wind, the rushing of the sea, falling grains or nut shells. Very calming. Then the large gongs followed with a deep, vibrating sound.
Aviation noise is the most significant negative factor, but a commercial airport also creates a background of air pollution and accident risk. Research has shown that municipalities have experienced a decrease in property tax revenue, a worsening of health issues and learning problems in children.
The almost two-hour tour for approximately thirty interested visitors was led by historian Juris Berže, who mainly outlined the history of the neighbourhood's development and focused on examples of wooden architecture that have given Čiekurkalns its individual character over the years - an undeniable value worth recognising, restoring and preserving for future generations.