Learning

Rose Madeline Mula Writes, Van Gogh and Me: I knew about Van Gogh's demons. That should have given me a clue that trying to paint will drive you crazy.  As we all know, despite Vinny's amazing talent, he became so deranged that he lopped off an ear. I once took a course titled, Watercolor Without Fear. It was wonderful. Following the instructor's excellent guidance I actually produced a fairly respectable painting of a rose that first evening. It was intoxicating! more »

"An intensive study of a group of plants that first invaded emerging deserts millions of years ago concludes that these pioneers — rock daisies — did not come unequipped to deal with heat, scorching sun and lack of water. They had developed adaptations to such stresses while living on dry, exposed rock outcroppings within older, more moist areas and even tropical forests, all of which made it easier for them to invade expanding arid areas." more »

"This case also highlights the evolving threat and increasingly brazen conduct emanating from Iran. I have spoken before about the threat Iran poses to our homeland through its networks and proxies. In the last year, we have charged members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with a plot to murder the former U.S. National Security Advisor; We’ve indicted Iranian hackers for targeting utility companies and other critical U.S. infrastructure; And we’ve called out Iran for a destructive cyberattack that crippled a partner government’s computer networks. We will not tolerate this belligerent and criminal conduct. Instead, we will hold accountable those who would bring Iran’s campaign of violence to our shores. We will hold accountable those who seek to silence voices for human rights and women’s rights." more »

"Fact Sheet on U.S. Security Assistance to Ukraine January 25, 2023 In total, the United States has more than $27.8 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of the Biden Administration..." Thousands of night vision devices, surveillance systems, thermal imagery systems, optics, and laser rangefinders;  Commercial satellite imagery services;  Explosive ordnance disposal equipment and protective gear;  Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear protective equipment;  100 armored medical treatment vehicles;  Over 350 generators;  Medical supplies to include first aid kits, bandages, monitors, and other equipment;  Electronic jamming equipment;  Field equipment, cold weather gear, and spare parts;  Funding for training, maintenance, and sustainment. The United States also continues to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with additional capabilities to defend itself. more »