text:
Category talk:Wikipedia categories

Old header instructions
If you add a category to this page, please also add it on Categorization projects (current) and explain it there.

There's now just a link from there to here, so no need to worry about synchronization anymore. -- Beland 00:40, 18 Apr 2005 (UTC)

 * It is now Categorization projects (current). Brian Jason Drake 11:23, 10 November 2005 (UTC)

What is Category:Categories?
(Also posted to User_talk:SEWilco) [Seems to have been removed from User talk:SEWilco Brianjd 05:46, 2004 Dec 24 (UTC)]

I don't really understand what Category:Categories is. Please expand the description.

I am especially confused by the sentance "This is one of several Wikipedia category schemes.". Category:Categories appears to have only 5 items in it: Categories by country, Dewey Decimal Classification, Fundamental, Main page, Wikipedia. It does not appear that list forms a "category scheme". 2 of them are category schemes (Categories by coutry appears to be borderline; it couldn't include everything, but it is a meta-category...), 1 of them appears to be trying to do the same thing as the Wikipedia namespace(Wikipedia) and "Main page" seems to be just a method of mentioning what categories are listed on the main page within the category system itself. That list does not form a "category scheme", at least not to me.

Did you mean that Category:Categories is a Category for other "category schemes"? If so, that really should be clarified, and I Wikipedia, at least, should be removed. Also, I think there are quite a few other "category schemes" you should include, if that's what Category:Categories is. Again, please clarify. Thanks for all your work in Wikipedia. JesseW 09:08, 23 Oct 2004 (UTC)

 * Since I've not gotten any respnse yet, I'm going to remove the entries in this Catagory that are not listed on Categorization_projects_%28current%29. The relevant text(as of 10:23, 31 Oct 2004 (UTC)) is:
 * "Currently there are two top level categories:
 * Category:Fundamental
 * Category:Main page"
 * JesseW 10:23, 31 Oct 2004 (UTC)
 * I'll do this later. JesseW 10:58, 31 Oct 2004 (UTC)

What is Category:Main page?
Category:Main page has been deleted. See Category talk:Main page [only administrators can see deleted versions at this time Brian Jason Drake 11:35, 10 November 2005 (UTC)] and Categories for deletion.

Other category schemes?
Shouldn't this category show all the different category schemes in Wikipedia. Why only two? :ChrisG 22:26, 29 Nov 2004 (UTC)
 * What else would you propose adding? It used to have the Dewey system and the Wikipedia category in it also(see talk above); would you re-add those, and/or what else? I don't have a strong opinion one way or the other. JesseW 06:19, 30 Nov 2004 (UTC)
 * Category:Wikipedia does not represent a category scheme. It just contains categories and articles about Wikipedia, so it is not any different to most other categories. Brianjd 06:50, 2004 Nov 30 (UTC)
 * I agree. Thank you for explaining it clearly. JesseW 06:59, 30 Nov 2004 (UTC)

Is this needed?
How is this category different from Category:Fundamental? Karol 08:49, 8 November 2005 (UTC)
 * This category is supposed to contain all the categories and articles which represent a categorization scheme. Category:Fundamental is one of those schemes. -- Beland 17:33, 30 November 2005 (UTC)

Main page cats
This category contains all but one of the main page categories (the exception is Category:Technology). Why is this? Brian Jason Drake 09:32, 10 November 2005 (UTC)
 * I fixed this by creating Category:Top 8, which includes Category:Technology and all the others. -- Beland 17:49, 30 November 2005 (UTC)

New category problem
I want to create Category:Categories that are not members of themselves, but I couldn't decide whether or not it should be a member of itself. Can anyone help? —Ashley Y 01:45, 14 December 2005 (UTC)

 * See Russell's paradox. Brian Jason Drake 00:47, 17 May 2006 (UTC)

 * You have a good sense of humor, ashley. nadav 15:58, 25 May 2006 (UTC)

 * If it wasn't included in it's own category people could think #"ah! this is the only page that doesn't belong in a category...thus this is the top category!" If it was in it's own category and people clicked it repeatedly watching it redirects to the same page each time they click they could think #"This page redirects to itself, either someone has done an error, or this page just doesn't belong to any category, thus I will remove it". After this 'deep thinking' I think that it shouldn't belong to any category, not even itself. Although the main page could belong to the category, the category itself doesn't need to belong to any category. Logictheo 19:49, 30 May 2007 (UTC)

Shortcut appropriate?
Hello. I know that the shortcut policy as listed at WP:SHORT is that shortcuts can only be created for the WP: namespace. However, CAT:CSD has a shortcut, and I think it would make sense to create a CAT:CAT shortcut that points to Category:Categories. Is this allowed? Lbbzman 16:44, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

 * Appears so.— G . H e  01:29, 23 May 2006 (UTC)

 * 1) WP:SHORT is a guildeline, not a policy.
 * 2) Where does it say only to use shortcuts for the WP: namespace? Brian Jason Drake 02:28, 24 May 2006 (UTC)

 * Well when I created my question in January, WP:SHORT was presented as a shortcut policy, and the page said to only link to WP:. I went ahead and created the shortcut after receiving no contrary opinions. WP:SHORT has obviously changed since January. Cheers, Lbbzman 03:56, 24 May 2006 (UTC)

Circular category parentage
Is this category a parent or a subcategory of Category: Container categories? It cannot be both. Ottawahitech (talk) 23:59, 15 January 2017 (UTC)please ping me

title: Category talk:Wikipedia categories


text:
User talk:Mixxski

Please don't blank articles; it's considered vandalism. If you want to experiment, you can use the sandbox. Thank you. — Matt 10:20, 23 Oct 2004 (UTC)

Googlex
I have deleted this article. This is an encyclopedia, not a place to launch petitions. RickK 00:29, Mar 22, 2005 (UTC)

This page is still under construction! Please dont delete it!

 * This page is not an encyclopedia article. It has been deleted.  Please don't create it again.  RickK 05:06, Mar 22, 2005 (UTC)

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: User talk:Mixxski


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Last Call

Last call is an announcement made in a bar before serving drinks is stopped.

Last Call may also refer to:

Film

 * Last Call (1958 film), an Australian television play
 * Last Call (1991 film), a thriller film
 * Last Call (1999 film), a Chilean-American thriller featuring Peter Coyote and Elizabeth Berkley
 * Last Call (2002 film), a film about F. Scott Fitzgerald
 * Last Call, a 2004 film featuring Lynn Cohen
 * Last Call, a 2005 short film written by Laura Censabella
 * Last Call, a 2006 film featuring Natalie Denise Sperl
 * Last Call, a 2008 film starring Lori Petty
 * Last Call (2012 film), a film starring Diora Baird
 * The Last Call (2013 film), a Mexican comedy-drama film directed by Francisco Franco
 * Last Call (2017 film), or Dominion, a film about Dylan Thomas
 * Last Call (2019 film), a film by Gavin Michael Booth
 * Last Call (2020 film), a Bulgarian film starring Maria Bakalova
 * Last Call (2021 film), a film starring Jeremy Piven

Shows

 * Last Call (talk show), a 1994–1995 American late-night show hosted by Tad Low
 * Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York, a 2023 documentary miniseries based on a book by Elon Green
 * Last Call with Carson Daly, a 2002–2019 American late-night talk show
 * Last Call, a Canadian late-night show that aired on Toronto One
 * Last Call, a series that aired on Bounce TV

Episodes

 * "Last Call" (Ash vs Evil Dead), 2016
 * "Last Call" (The L Word: Generation Q), 2021
 * "Last Call" (Person of Interest), 2014
 * "The Last Call" (The Good Wife), 2014

Literature

 * Last Call (novel), a 1992 novel by Tim Powers
 * Last Call, a 2008 novel by James Grippando
 * Last Call, a 2004 short-story collection by K. L. Cook
 * Last Call: Memoirs of an NFL Referee, a 1999 book by Jerry Markbreit
 * Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, a 2010 book by Daniel Okrent
 * "Last Call", a 2009 short-story set in the Dresden Files book series by Jim Butcher

Albums

 * Last Call (Rittz album), 2017
 * Last Call, by Betty Blowtorch, 2003
 * Last Call, by Cayouche, 2003
 * Last Call, by Jeff Healey, 2010

Songs

 * "Last Call" (Dave Van Ronk song)
 * "Last Call" (Lee Ann Womack song)
 * "Last Call", by the Alkaholiks from 21 & Over
 * "Last Call", by Elliott Smith from Roman Candle
 * "Last Call", by Junior Walker & The All-Stars from Road Runner
 * "Last Call", by Kanye West from The College Dropout
 * "Last Call", by Katy Hudson (later known as Katy Perry) from Katy Hudson
 * "Last Call", by Logic from YSIV
 * "Last Call", by OutKast from Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
 * "Last Call", by Patti Smith from Peace and Noise
 * "Last Call", by Pink from Trustfall
 * "Last Call", by the Plain White T's from All That We Needed
 * "Last Call", by The Saturdays from On Your Radar

Other uses

 * Last Call (store), a chain of clearance centers operated by Neiman Marcus
 * Last Call (video game), a 2000 computer game
 * Operation Last Call, a law enforcement initiative in Texas, US
 * Last Call, a program on Hardcore Sports Radio

title: Last Call


text:
Transvaal Park

Transvaal Park was a water park in Yasenevo, a southern district of Moscow, Russia. It had an African theme and was named after a former province of South Africa. With heated pools, including a wave pool and twisting "river" for tubing, it became one of the most popular attractions in the Moscow area and a symbol of the country's bloom of private enterprise. After being open for two years, the roof collapsed, killing 28 people. The park was subsequently closed.

Construction
Transvaal Park was developed by the architectural company Sergey Kiselev and Partners, under architect Nodar Kancheli. The sports and entertainment complex was a five-story building shaped like a whale's tail, covering a total area of 20,200 m², of which about 7,000 m² was dedicated to water attractions. The project's client was the company European Technologies and Service, which secured a loan of $17.3 million from Sberbank. The total cost of construction was estimated at $40 million.

Initially, there were plans to engage European builders, but due to difficulties in obtaining the necessary licenses and the absence of required Russian standards at that time, the Turkish company Koçak İnşaat Ltd. agreed to build the water park and partially finance the construction.

Construction began in 2000, and by June 2002, Transvaal Park was operational. At the time of its construction, the water park was the largest in Europe and included water attractions, a sports pool, two sauna sections, a bowling alley with a café bar and billiards, a restaurant, a gym, and a beauty salon. The complex could accommodate about 2,000 people.

Collapse
On 14 February 2004, at 7:15 p.m., the dome of the complex collapsed. Estimates suggest that up to 1,300 people were inside the water park at the time. The date, a Valentine's Day Saturday, attracted a large number of young visitors.

The collapsed area was approximately 5,000 m². The dome fell onto the water entertainment area, sparing only the adult pool. It resulted in 28 deaths (including 8 children), 12 severe injuries, and 189 other injuries. Kancheli was blamed for the collapse. Two years later, on 23 February 2006, at 09:30 am, the roof of the Basmanny market, also designed by Kancheli, collapsed, killing 66 people.

Kancheli claimed that terrorists likely attacked the venue, but the cause was found to be faulty design.

Investigation and trials
An investigation was launched, lasting about twenty months, and resulting in the criminal prosecution of Kancheli and the head of the Moscow State Non-Departmental Expertise, Anatoly Voronin. In 2006, both men were released. Kancheli was granted amnesty at his request to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the State Duma. On 30 August 2006, criminal proceedings against Voronin were dropped for lack of criminal intent. Attempts by the victims' representatives to appeal the decisions were unsuccessful.

Aftermath
In 2005, on the anniversary of the tragedy, a memorial stone with the names of the deceased was placed at the walls of Transvaal Park.

On 13 February 2008, victims and relatives of the deceased filed a complaint with the European Court of Human Rights, demanding recognition of violations by the Russian Federation and the awarding of fair compensation to the victims.

In 2013, the multipurpose complex Moreon was opened on the site of the former water park, and a chapel commemorating the tragedy was established on its premises.

title: Transvaal Park


text:
Talk:Twelve Girls Band

Twelve
I think this article title should be changed from "12 Girls Band" to "Twelve Girls Band". This is a proper noun of this group. Rantaro 09:16, 23 Oct 2004 (UTC)

Me too. Done. cbm 02:42, 14 Dec 2004 (UTC)

Additionally, the kanji listed is Japanese, not the Chinese used on the official website; perhaps the Japanese version could be given as an alternate reading after the Chinese version. I'm not skilled with the Wiki, though, so somebody else should probably do it.sleet01 03:22, 25 Oct 2005 (UTC)

Discography - Freedom
Hello. I added the listing for Freedom as the last album dated 2004. I don't know the proper order of release and thought the end of 2004 the best place. It was released by Nextar, UPC 6-38812-72242-3. --EarthPerson 16:21, 25 August 2006 (UTC)

Hello. I tried to work on the discography, putting up tracklists and stuff. I had problems with uploading pictures so I skiped that. I updated the discography which was really hard, since it's hard to find informations on those CDs and DVDs. The biggest problem was to decide on which tracklist I should write. I decided to write those which I have myself and note them as "japanese or us album" which should help with the tracklist problem. I also wrote that little comment, which tells, that there are many diffrent versions for diffrent country in which the tracklists can change a bit, but the content should be the same. Why did I put that up? ppl sometimes wonder, when they don't have the same tracklist. I thought it's only fair to inform them. Something would be great tho... My english is not the best, since I'm a german native. I tried my best. It would be great if anyone takes some time to correct any mistake which can be found. :) thanks for reading xD Twelve Girl Band roxx!~  --Tomo-chan 03:28, 6 September 2006 (UTC)

RE: The sound of 12 wailing cats68.224.160.49 13:08, 29 June 2007 (UTC)

Former Members
124.101.212.246, what was your reasoning behind deleting information about former members of the group in your recent edit? I think it's useful information to have in the article (compare, for example to Morning Musume, which rotates members regularly), and you didn't give any rationale.

I plan to undo your edit unless you can give some sort of reasoning for why you deleted the information. Coach Z Ale 14:19, 30 August 2007 (UTC)

Number of members on Stage
The article seems either incorrect or out of date on one point where it describes the group as "a music group with thirteen women artists, always appearing as twelve on stage."

I'm going to try to find something I can cite for this, but having seen them live last night, I can say that - at least in this performance - they always had all thirteen members on stage at all times, not twelve. Obviously "I just saw them live" is not a citable source, so I'm not going to edit the page yet, but if anyone can find another source showing that they now sometimes (or always) have all 13 girls on stage, we might want to then edit how that description is phrased, just for accuracy's sake. I'll look and see if I can find anything in a review or something. Dexeron 15:12, 17 October 2007 (UTC)

Update
Since late April of 2009 there appear to have been some major changes with this Band. Apparently, under the Auspices of the Original producers the Band has split into to a total of Three (3) Bands adding members and moving some of the original members to the other two bands. What little Information I have been able to glean is from 12Tongtech Site (http://www.youtube.com/user/12tongtech) on YouTube and a Japanese site I cannot translate very well (http://blog.livedoor.jp/blog_12girlsband/archives/51286823.html) the Three bands are Twelve Girls Band, Graceful Triangle, & V12 Band. If anyone can find out information and update appropriately it would be nice Shieldwolf (talk) 08:21, 3 November 2010 (UTC)

New member(s?
As of 2020, does this group now have a pipa player named Liu Ruihan? 173.88.246.138 (talk) 13:06, 13 July 2020 (UTC)

title: Talk:Twelve Girls Band


text:
Cat City

Cat City (Macskafogó; ) is a 1986 Hungarian adult animated comic science fiction film, directed by Béla Ternovszky and written by József Nepp. The title Cat City was used in the United States distribution. The film was selected as the Hungarian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 59th Academy Awards, but it was not nominated.

The film is a parody of several famous feature films, mainly the James Bond series. It tells the story of a special agent who is sent to the city of "Pokyo" to obtain the secret plans of a machine that could save mouse society. Of course, the cats don't want this to happen, and send some rat gangsters to stop special agent, who don't always prove as efficient as they initially seem. The film has developed a cult following in the years since its release. A musical based on the film premiered in December 2011.

Plot
In year 80 AM (Anno Mickey Mouse), the mice of Planet X are threatened by humiliation and total apocalypse. The well-organized, fully equipped gangs of evil cats are aiming for the total obliteration of mice, not caring for the old conventions between mice and cats. But in the last moment, when the mouse leaders are beginning to consider leaving the planet, a new hope rises...

Reception
Gabriella Székely of Filmvilág gave a mixed review, calling it a "stereotype Gangster film which ends with a happy ending"

Home media
In 2023, Deaf Crocodile Films announced a Blu-ray release of the film, the first time ever in the United States. The release will be based on a restoration by National Film Institute Hungary.

In other media
A comic book adaptation, illustrated by József Nepp, Béla Ternovszky, and Zoltán Maros was released in 1987.

A musical based on the film, adapted by Róbert Szikora and Attila Valla, premiered in December 2011.

Sequel: Cat City 2: The Cat of Satan
Production of the sequel Cat City 2: The Cat of Satan (Macskafogó 2 – A sátán macskája) started in September 2005. It was made on a budget of about 600 million HUF. The story of Cat City 2 centers around an investigative journalist named Stanley Mouse, who wants to find out about the legend of an ancient "cat tribe" lost in Africa. He finds them and much more, once again threatening the continued existence of mouse civilization. Special Agent Grabowsky will act to save the day, however. The events are supposed to take place some 20 years after the first episode, as one of the already leaked cells shows the titular Cat-Catcher mecha rusting away in a shelter, and a grown-up child of some character appears in the plot.

Premiering on December 20, 2007, by January 2008 it had made the Hungarian Box Office Top Ten for 6 consecutive weeks. It was the most watched Hungarian film in 2008.

title: Cat City


text:
Pigmy Love Circus

Pigmy Love Circus is a Los Angeles rock band that has existed since the mid-1980s era of the Hollywood underground rock scene.

Pigmy Love Circus originally consisted of Shepherd Stevenson on bass, Mike Savage on vocals, Anthony Martinez (of Black Flag) on drums, with Rand "Pig" Walters and Peter Fletcher on guitars. Danny Carey, who already played in a number of other bands such as Green Jellÿ and Tool, played with them briefly in 1992, but left to focus on Tool.

By 1995, Pigmy Love Circus disbanded. What was left of the band went their separate ways. Savage went on to form 57 Crown and Big Ugly, both being formidable bands in Hollywood. Stevenson now acts and composes music for film. Fletcher moved to Denver, Colorado. Rand "Pig" Walters lives in South Carolina.

In 1999, Fletcher returned to Los Angeles and the flame was rekindled when Carey demanded a reunion.

The band toured several times in the U.S. in 2002–2004 both alone and also opening for A Perfect Circle in the U.S. and Canada.

In 2012, Pigmy Love Circus played a Dog Patch Wino Reunion show at the Dragonfly in Los Angeles. As of May 2020 this was their final appearance.

In 2014, Rand "Pig" Walters reappeared and released a solo record which is only currently available on his rawpork2014.com website. It was recorded in Nashville and San Francisco, engineered, mixed and mastered by Mark Fuller. Walters died April 19, 2024

On April 19, 2024 Rand "Pig" Walters passed away due to complications from pneumonia.

Known for lively, confrontational concerts the band's music and primal energy incite fans to jump on stage (encouraged by the band) and sing along on songs such as "Dagwood Killed Blondie" and "Mad House Clown". The band achieved iconic status in the Los Angeles underground music scene.

Current members

 * Danny Carey (drums)
 * Peter Fletcher (guitar)
 * Michael Savage (vocals)
 * Shepherd Stevenson (bass)
 * John Ziegler (guitar)

Past members

 * Rand "Pig" Walters (guitar)
 * Anthony Martinez (drums)
 * Jeff Chambers (guitar)

EPs and singles

 * 1989: I'm The King of L.A. ...I Killed Axl Rose Today
 * 1990: Beat on the Brat
 * 1992: Drink Free Forever
 * 1995: Drug Run to Fontana

Albums

 * 1990: Live (live album)
 * 1991: Drink Free Forever
 * 1992: When Clowns Become Kings
 * 2004: The Power of Beef

title: Pigmy Love Circus


text:
Last call

In a bar, a last call (last orders) is an announcement made shortly before the bar closes for the night, informing patrons of their last chance to buy alcoholic beverages. There are various means to make the signal, like ringing a bell, flashing the lights, or announcing verbally.

Last call times are often legally mandated and vary widely globally as well as locally. Legislation's purposes include reducing late night noise in the neighborhood, traffic crashes, violence, and alcohol related health problems.

Australia
In New South Wales, there is no specified closing time, but in residential areas, bars are often required to close at midnight. In non-residential areas, some bars are open 24 hours. A six-hour daily closure period applies to new licenses (and extended hours authorizations) granted from 30 October 2008, which is nominated depending on individual and community circumstances.

During a significant part of the early 20th century, bars in Australia and New Zealand were closed at 6p.m. by law. The resulting rush to buy drinks after work was known as the six o'clock swill.

Austria
Bar closing hours in Austria are regulated by the federated states. In most states bars must close at 4a.m. although many places have special permits to close later. In the capital, Vienna, bars and clubs are allowed to stay open until 6a.m. Alcohol is allowed to be served until the bar or club closes.

Belgium
There is no legally mandated last call in Belgium; many bars will stay open all night.

Brazil
There is no legally mandated last call in Brazil; many bars will stay open all night. Some cities have laws that require bars to close during the early morning hours.

Canada

 * British Columbia: Last call for serving alcohol is generally 2:00 a.m. provincially. Municipalities may change last call to as early as 12a.m. or as late as 4a.m. if they so choose. Downtown Vancouver's last call was moved to 4:00 a.m. but was subsequently lowered to 3a.m. On New Year's Eve last call is extended to 4a.m. provincewide if food is available to patrons at the premises. Regulated liquor stores (both private and government-operated) can sell off-premises alcohol from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00p.m., with government-operated liquor stores typically closing before 9p.m.
 * Alberta: Last call and sale of alcohol from a store or establishment is 2a.m. province-wide. In an establishment, a customer may have no more than two drinks in possession after 1a.m. or last call, whatever comes first. All liquor drinks are to be removed from patron areas by 3:00a.m. at the latest.
 * Manitoba: Last call and the sale of alcohol from a store or establishment is 2a.m. province-wide. During special events, establishments are permitted to serve alcohol until 3a.m.
 * Ontario: Last call begins at 1:45a.m. and fifteen minutes are allowed for ordering an alcoholic beverage. It is no longer legally permissible to serve alcohol past 2a.m., although the province has the authority to grant waivers to allow closing at 4a.m. during special events. On New Year's Eve, all licensed premises are allowed to serve until 3:00 a.m. In all cases, there is always an added 45 minute "consumption period" allowing patrons additional time to consume their purchases after alcohol sales have ended. Even though licensed establishments are never required to close their doors by a certain time, all alcohol must be removed by the end of the consumption period. Alcohol sales may occur only within regulated stores, which will always close between 9p.m. and 11p.m., depending on the location or the store (LCBO, Beer Store, Wine Stores or selected grocery stores).
 * Quebec: Last call is 3a.m. province wide for establishments serving alcohol (with some exceptions), while the sale of alcohol from a store is restricted after 11p.m. Bars may allow customers to stay until 4a.m. but may not serve alcohol past 3a.m. Bars across the river from Ottawa (Hull area) close at 2a.m. to match their Ontario counterparts.
 * New Brunswick: Sales can start at 11:00 a.m. but must end at 2:00 a.m. the following day. A tolerance period of 30 minutes, beyond 2:00 a.m., is allowed to give patrons time to consume their beverage. At 2:30 a.m. the premises must be vacated.
 * Newfoundland and Labrador: Last call is 2a.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and 3a.m. the rest of the week. There is then a 30 minute "consumption period" before bars must close.
 * Nova Scotia: Last call for most establishments is 2a.m., Cabaret businesses are allowed to serve until 3:30 a.m.
 * Saskatchewan: Last call is 2a.m. On New Year's Eve, it is extended until 2:30 a.m. (on Jan. 1).
 * Northwest Territories; Yukon: Last call is 2a.m., extended to 3a.m. on New Year's Eve.

China
Many bars, KTVs and nightclubs have no specific last call and will continue to sell alcohol and stay open provided there are paying customers present. During times when national security is increased (i.e. the Olympics, the 60th Anniversary of the PRC), closing times may be in effect in some cities between 1 and 2a.m. Alcohol is sold through retailers 24 hours a day.

Croatia
Establishments that serve drinks may register as bars and may be open in inhabited areas only indoors and only between 9p.m. and 6a.m., but no such restrictions exist if bars are located outside inhabited areas. Various exceptions can be made for bars located in transit facilities, if approved by the local authorities, etc. The prescribed working hours for bars are a frequent point of contention between city authorities and local businessmen, particularly during the summer tourist season.

Finland
Bars are allowed to serve drinks until 1:30 a.m., but a provincial government may at the proprietor's request, grant extensions up to 4a.m. Extensions require the establishment to maintain a higher standard of amenities, service and entertainment by, for example, providing a coat check, entertainment programming such as a DJ or live music, and even general cleanliness and "look and feel" count. The laws were loosened beginning of 2018.

A last call is not announced per se, but as a custom, the lights are flashed a few times (or in case of a dimly lit establishment such as a nightclub, all lights are left on) to notify the customers that serving drinks is over. In Finnish lexicon "valomerkki" (lit. "Light signal") has become a common synonym for ending any activities for the night.

Germany
Bar closing hours in Germany are regulated by the federated states or cities. Since the 2000s, many federated states and cities have none or relaxed regulations. In many states and cities bars are open as long as there are customers.

Open-air locations such as beer gardens often must close at 11p.m. or 12a.m. to reduce noise pollution. Exceptions may exist for weekends, Carnival and New Year's Eve. Not all cities strictly enforce the regulation.

Greece
In Greece, all bars, cafeterias, clubs and the like will stay open as long as there are customers inside. Usually, cafeterias stay open until 11p.m., bars until 2a.m. and clubs until early in the morning, but there is no last call. In 1994, Stelios Papathemelis, the Minister for Public Order, passed a law mandating closing of all bars at 2a.m. The law was widely unpopular, never materialized fully and was abolished a few years later.

India
India closing time of bars vary in different states. In Delhi it is 1am, Mumbai 1:30am, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata at midnight. In Chandigarh it is 1a.m. weekdays and 2a.m. weekends. In Bangalore it is 11:30 p.m. on weekdays and 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Ireland
Bar closing hours are governed by the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000. Generally, bars must close at 23:30 Monday to Thursday, 00:30 on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday closing time is 23.00. There are special provisions for certain holidays and festivals. Bars may get an extended license until 02:30 any night.

On 25 October 2022, the Government announced a reform of licensing laws in the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2022. If passed, the law would permit bars to open until 00:30 every day. "Late bars" would continue to be permitted to open until 02:30, and nightclubs would be permitted to open until 06:00 (with the sale of alcohol ending at 05:00).

Israel
In Israel, there are no specific closing times and the country has liberal alcohol laws. Bars and clubs in entertainment districts will serve alcohol practically 24 hours a day, while in residential districts local regulations apply; establishments that serve alcohol outside may often have to call their guests inside after midnight or even close completely.

In 2006, Knesset member Ruhama Avraham attempted to pass a bill in parliament that would forbid selling alcohol between 2 and 6a.m. The bill faced severe resistance from bar and restaurant owners and finally was drawn back.

In Tel Aviv, bars are fined for remaining open past 1a.m. Though few bars actually close at that time, they are forced to pay the "back-door" tax to the municipality, with no recourse to the national government. A number of bars are contemplated closing at the required time and during internationally promoted events such as Gay Pride Week in protest of the city's underhanded hypocrisy in promoting itself as "the city that never sleeps" but also fining the very establishments that make it such a hot tourist spot.

Alcohol is no longer sold around the clock in grocery stores, and no sales are allowed between 11p.m. and 6a.m.

Italy
Italy does not have a legally mandated closing time. Alcohol may be served or sold anywhere 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In Rome, an ordinance was passed in January 2009 to make 2a.m. the last call in Campo de' Fiori and the neighbourhoods of Trastevere and Testaccio. The new last call time for these areas was initiated to curtail nighttime commotion in those popular parts of Rome.

Japan
Japan does not have a legally mandated closing time. Alcohol may be served or sold anywhere 24 hours a day.

New Zealand
Until December 18, 2013, bars could close at any time they wanted (often 7am). Since December 18, 2013, all bars and nightclubs must close at 3 or 4am. Special conditions apply on Holy/ Maundy Thursday, Holy Saturday (Easter Eve), the day before ANZAC day and Christmas Eve, when bars must close their doors by midnight. Private bars and workingmen's clubs may stay open beyond that curfew.

Norway
Last call laws vary.

 * City-specific laws:
 * Oslo: 3a.m.
 * Bergen: 2:30 a.m. - 3a.m. at places that plays live music.
 * Trondheim: 2a.m.
 * Stavanger: 3a.m., only for venues that are 21+
 * Moss: 2:30 a.m.
 * Fredrikstad: 1:30 a.m.
 * 3a.m.
 * Bodø: 3a.m.
 * Harstad: 3a.m.
 * Hamar: 1:30 a.m.
 * Kristiansand: 2a.m.
 * Molde: 2a.m.
 * Ålesund: 3a.m.
 * Drammen: 3a.m.
 * Tønsberg: 3a.m.
 * Tromsø: 3a.m.
 * Kirkenes: 2a.m.
 * Arendal: 2a.m.
 * Kongsberg: 2a.m.
 * Larvik: 2a.m.
 * Longyearbyen: 2a.m.

Out of the 429 counties of Norway, almost 50% have established a closing time or "last call" at 2a.m. Only 1 in 7 counties serves drinks until the maximum allowance at 3a.m. That is a major decrease over the last few years because of the government's belief that reduced drinking hours equal less fighting, noise, disturbance, etc.

Sweden
In Sweden, explicit last calls do not take place, as it would violate a political principle not to encourage people to drink more. The latest allowed closing time of bars and restaurant is decided by the municipality but regulated by national laws and rules. The standard latest time is 1a.m. But in many cities a later time can be allowed on some conditions, like high security and staff educated in responsible serving of alcohol. In some of the largest cities, a closing time as late as 5a.m. occurs. During the coronavirus pandemic 2020-2021 the alcohol law was used to limit the number of visitors to bars and restaurants (only for those serving alcohol) by setting the closing time to 8p.m.

Turkey
Turkey does not have a legally mandated closing time. In the new Turkish system, alcohol may no longer be sold in grocery stores past 11pm, but may still be sold in bars and clubs with no legally mandated last call.

United Kingdom
Standard closing time was 11pm, but increased flexibility was allowed in November 2005 under the Licensing Act 2003.

The average "Last Call" time is between 11pm and 1am in municipalities such as Birmingham and London. This information was taken from two hundred bars from 2014 to 2016. Bars and clubs may apply for individual licenses that allow them to close at any time between 11pm and 3am. Some establishments in large cities have 24-hour licenses.

United States
In the U.S., the last call time varies mostly on state, county and/or municipality. The governing authority of any municipality within a parish with a population between fifty-three thousand and sixty thousand persons according to the most recent federal decennial census may enact ordinances to regulate the closing times of bars located within the municipality, subject to approval by a majority of the qualified electors of the municipality voting at an election held for the purpose.
 * State-specific laws:
 * Alabama: 2a.m. (Many bars and nightclubs in Birmingham have certain licensing to serve alcohol past 2a.m., and instead determine last call when business diminishes. There is at least one nightclub in the city that serves alcohol 24/7 365 days a year. Mobile has many 24/7 bars, and the bars in its downtown entertainment district typically stay open until 7:00am the next morning on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.)
 * Alaska: 5a.m.; while most cities restrict this further, some do not (primarily smaller Matanuska-Susitna Valley towns), and some villages are dry.
 * Arizona: 2a.m.
 * Arkansas: 2a.m.
 * California: 2a.m.
 * Colorado: 2a.m.
 * Connecticut: 2a.m. Friday and Saturday nights. 1a.m. Sunday through Thursday., 3a.m. New Year's Eve (Day)
 * Delaware: Last call is 12:45a.m. Service must stop at 1a.m. All drinks must be removed from tables by 2a.m. Service resumes at 9a.m.
 * District of Columbia: 3a.m. on Friday night, Saturday night, and the night before a federal or D.C. holiday; 4a.m. on the night of New Year's Eve and the beginning of daylight saving time; 2a.m. other nights.
 * Florida: Last call set statewide to 2a.m., some cities have passed exemptions to the law, notably Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Pinellas County (3a.m.), Broward County (4a.m.), Key West (4a.m.), and Miami (24 hours in the Miami Entertainment District; 4:50 a.m. otherwise). Liquor store closing times vary by county.
 * Georgia: Varies by county (most are set at 2a.m., while others may have different times or no time at all). In Atlanta, most bars are allowed to close at 2:30 a.m., but Underground Atlanta can operate until 4a.m.
 * Hawaii: 4a.m. Not all bars qualify for a 4a.m. license; these must close at 2a.m.
 * Idaho: 2a.m.
 * Illinois: 1a.m. through 3a.m., varies by municipality. In Chicago, it is regular license bars 2a.m., Sunday to Friday at 3a.m. Saturday. Some bars have a late night license, allowing them to close two hours later so 4a.m. Sunday through Friday at 5a.m. Saturday.
 * Indiana: 3a.m. (was 12:30 on Sundays, not currently)
 * Iowa: 2a.m.
 * Kansas: 2a.m. (in the 17 counties allowing bars without limitation)
 * Kentucky: 2a.m. In Louisville, some bars may buy 4a.m. licenses.
 * Louisiana: There is no statewide closing time. Bars may remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. But Louisiana law provides:
 * Maine: 1a.m., 2a.m. on New Year's Eve. In all instances, there is a 15-minute consumption period before the premises must be vacated.
 * Maryland: 2a.m.
 * Massachusetts: 2a.m., although cities and towns can (and frequently do) set last call earlier; Casinos can serve until 4a.m., if purchaser is actively gaming. Alcohol sales stop 30 minutes prior to closing time.
 * Michigan: 2a.m., 4a.m. New Year's Eve.
 * Minnesota: 2a.m. Many cities have a 1a.m. restriction.
 * Mississippi: 12:00 midnight or 1:00a.m.; depending on city. Larger metro areas usually adhere to "After Midnight" policy. Most casinos do not have a last call.
 * Missouri: 1:30a.m. in most of the state; 3a.m. in specially licensed establishments in the two largest metropolises of St. Louis and Kansas City, and their surrounding areas.
 * Montana: Last call for bars and taverns is around 1:30a.m. One can purchase beer from many local gas stations and grocery stores until 2a.m. State law reads, "Agency liquor stores may remain open during the period between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m." In spite of this, most liquor stores close on or before 10p.m. with the exception of casino/liquor stores.
 * Nebraska: 1a.m.; except for municipalities (Omaha & Lincoln) are allowed to stay open until 2am.
 * Nevada: There is no set statewide closing time. Bars may remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 * New Hampshire: Statewide is 1:00a.m., bars must close at 1:30a.m. Must call last call at 12:45a.m. On-premises licensees may sell from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., 7 days a week. The licensee may sell until 2:00 a.m. under conditions authorized by the city or town in which the premises (bar or club) are located if the city or town's legislative body adopts an ordinance authorizing such sale
 * New Jersey: No statewide closing time. Most municipalities set their last call at 2a.m. Atlantic City serves 24 hours. Ocean City is a dry town.
 * New Mexico: 2a.m. Monday thru Saturday. 12a.m. on Sundays.
 * New York: Under state law, establishments must stop serving alcohol by 4a.m. The actual closing time is left up to each of New York's 62 counties. The 4a.m. time applies in New York City; clubs and bars may remain open without serving alcohol; they may start serving at 7a.m. except on Sunday when sales begin at noon. Last call is also 4a.m. in Albany, Buffalo, and Saratoga Springs. Binghamton has a last call of 3a.m., Syracuse and Rochester have a time of 2a.m., and Elmira, Geneva, and Ithaca have a time of 1a.m. Rural counties may be even earlier.
 * North Carolina: Last call is 2a.m. statewide. On weekdays and Saturdays, alcohol can be sold beginning at 7a.m., on Sunday alcohol sales begin at 10 a.m. in most counties. Liquor stores (ABC) closed on Sundays.
 * North Dakota: 1a.m.. Recent legislation allows each county and city by local option to set a 2a.m. closing time. North Dakota's closing time is strict. All drinks must be off the tables and the bar closed by the mandatory closing time.
 * Ohio: Last call is 2a.m. statewide, but establishments may acquire licenses that allow them to serve until 2:30 a.m. Store-bought beer and wine sales stop at 1a.m. Liquor over 42 proof must be purchased in state-approved stores, whose sales stop at 10p.m.
 * Oklahoma: 2a.m.
 * Oregon: 2:30a.m.
 * Pennsylvania: 2a.m. in taverns, 3a.m. in membership-only clubs statewide. Sales may begin as early as 7a.m. Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board–operated liquor stores (known as "Wine & Spirits Shoppes", or commonly called "state stores") operate various hours, but never open before 9a.m. and never close later than 10p.m. About ten percent of state stores, most of which near the borders of the Commonwealth, are open from noon to 5p.m. on Sundays.
 * Rhode Island: 1a.m. seven days a week. 2a.m. in Providence only on Friday and Saturday nights and nights before a state-recognized holiday.
 * South Carolina: Set by county or municipality. No alcohol sales (on or off premises) is permitted on Sundays, except in Aiken City, Columbia, Charleston, Greenville / North Augusta, South Carolina, Spartanburg, and the Myrtle Beach area.
 * South Dakota: 2a.m.
 * Tennessee: 3a.m.
 * Texas: Serving stops at midnight or 2a.m. (depending on city and county population) on Monday through Saturday; beverages may be sold until 1 or 2a.m. Sunday (depending on population), and then again at 10a.m. (if food is served with the liquor) or 12 noon (regardless of food). All drinks must be up fifteen minutes after serving stops. Starting September 1, 2021, hotel bars will be able to serve alcohol to registered guests 24/7
 * Utah: Last call is 1a.m., and establishments must be closed by 2a.m.
 * Vermont: 2a.m., 3a.m. on New Year's Eve
 * Virginia: All on-premises drinks must be up by 2a.m. If Daylight Saving Time is ending, the first instance of 2a.m. counts. Some bars possess grandfathered licenses obtained before the current last call was instituted, allowing them to sell at any time. Off-premises premises must stop by midnight. Liquors may be acquired for off-premises consumption only at state-run liquor stores, which have fewer hours.
 * Washington: 2a.m.
 * West Virginia: 3a.m.
 * Wisconsin: 2a.m. Sunday through Thursday, 2:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. No closing time on New Year's Eve.
 * Wyoming: 2a.m.

 * City-specific laws:

 * Albany, New York: 4a.m.
 * Atlanta: 2:30a.m.; 4a.m. in Underground Atlanta. Midnight on Sunday night/Monday morning.
 * Atlantic City: Bars may stay open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 * Austin: 2a.m.
 * Baltimore: 2a.m.
 * Bloomington and Normal, Illinois: 1a.m. on weeknights, 2a.m. on weekends.
 * Bloomington, Indiana: 3a.m.
 * Boston: 2a.m.
 * Buffalo: 4a.m., 24 hours on specific holidays.
 * Champaign, Illinois: 2a.m.
 * Charlotte: 2a.m.
 * Chicago: Some bars may choose to close at 2a.m. or earlier. They may alternately get an extension to allow them to close at 4a.m. or earlier. On Saturdays, closing times are shifted an hour back to 3 and 5a.m.
 * Cincinnati: 2:15a.m. for last call; 2:30a.m. for closing time.
 * Cleveland: 2:30a.m.
 * Columbus: 2:30a.m.
 * Denver: 2a.m.
 * Florence, South Carolina: 2a.m. for hard liquor, 3a.m. for beer. This includes Sundays where any bar that is defined as a private club may operate 7 days a week, otherwise last call is midnight Saturday night, until the establishment reopens for business on Monday.
 * Fort Wayne, Indiana: 3a.m.
 * Houston: alcohol service stops at 2a.m.
 * Indianapolis: 3a.m.
 * Kansas City, Missouri: 1:30a.m. for most bars, 3a.m. for specially licensed bars in certain geographic areas, 6:00a.m. for one bar only, the Mutual Musicians Foundation.
 * Key West, Florida: 4a.m.
 * Lake Charles, Louisiana: 24 hours a day except Sundays. Bars must be closed between 2:30 a.m. on Sunday and 12:01 a.m. on Monday.
 * Las Vegas: Bars may stay open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 * Los Angeles: 2a.m.
 * Lexington, Kentucky: 2:30a.m.
 * Louisville, Kentucky: 2a.m. or 4a.m., depending on license.
 * Miami: 3a.m.; Bars may stay open 24 hours, 7 days a week in the Downtown Entertainment District.
 * Minneapolis–Saint Paul: 2a.m.
 * Mobile: No last call for bars operating under a private club license
 * New Orleans: Bars may stay open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
 * New York City: 4a.m.; nightclubs are permitted to stay open after 4a.m. but cannot serve alcohol.
 * Pensacola, Florida: 3a.m. (within city limits, 2a.m. for county)
 * Peoria, Illinois: Bars in the downtown district may stay open until 4a.m. Bars in other areas may stay open until 1a.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 2a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Bars may stay open 2 hours later than normal closing hours on New Year's Eve, but additional patrons are not allowed after normal closing hours.
 * Phoenix / Scottsdale: 2a.m.
 * Philadelphia: 2a.m.
 * Pittsburgh: 2a.m.
 * Providence: 2a.m. on weekends, and nights before a state-recognized holiday. 1a.m. on weeknights.
 * Rochester, New York: 2a.m.
 * Salt Lake City: 1a.m.
 * San Diego: 2a.m.
 * San Francisco: 2a.m.
 * Saratoga Springs, New York: 4a.m.
 * Savannah, Georgia: 3a.m.
 * San Antonio, Texas: 2a.m.
 * Seattle: 2a.m.
 * Shreveport, Louisiana: 6a.m. for Downtown, 4a.m. everywhere else.
 * St. Louis: 1:30a.m. for most bars, with some 3a.m. bars
 * St. Petersburg, Florida: 3a.m.
 * Tampa: 3a.m.
 * Washington, D.C.: 3a.m. on Friday night, Saturday night, and the night before a federal or DC holiday; 4a.m. on the night of New Year's Eve; 2a.m. other nights.

title: Last call


text:
Talk:Nigel Molesworth

Untitled
"Grown ups are what's left when skool is finished." N Molesworth

Molesworth, spelling, and reverts
Please don't revert edits for poor spelling or bad grammar unless you're familiar with the Molesworth books and can tell the difference between verbatim quotes and actual bad spelling. Thanks! --Mpk 08:54, 14 February 2006 (UTC)

Just a quick note to would-be cleaner-uppers: please do not capitalise nigel's name! Loganberry 02:13, 6 Nov 2004 (UTC)

 * Oh, all right. I was a young and callow Wikipedian back then! Loganberry (Talk) 03:19, 6 February 2008 (UTC)

Whizz/Wizz
I've checked my copy of the 2000 Penguin reprint, and the title of the third Molesworth book is written as "Whizz for Atomms", both in the contents, and in the reproduction of the original title page (p207 in the reprint). Nmg 14:48, 20 September 2006 (UTC)

Molesworth 2
What is the warrant for the assertion that he may be called George, please? Paul Magnussen (talk) 22:40, 18 October 2011 (UTC)
 * Back in the Jug Agane, Chapter 5, s.v. TOUGH GURLS. "She also refer to molesworth 2 as 'my bruther george'." Penguin Classics 1999 edition, page 394. Tevildo (talk) 00:09, 7 March 2016 (UTC)

Fair use rationale for Image:Molesworth.JPG
Image:Molesworth.JPG is being used on this article. I notice the image page specifies that the image is being used under fair use but there is no explanation or rationale as to why its use in this Wikipedia article constitutes fair use. In addition to the boilerplate fair use template, you must also write out on the image description page a specific explanation or rationale for why using this image in each article is consistent with fair use.

Please go to the image description page and edit it to include a fair use rationale. Using one of the templates at Fair use rationale guideline is an easy way to insure that your image is in compliance with Wikipedia policy, but remember that you must complete the template. Do not simply insert a blank template on an image page.

If there is other fair use media, consider checking that you have specified the fair use rationale on the other images used on this page. Note that any fair use images lacking such an explanation can be deleted one week after being tagged, as described on criteria for speedy deletion. If you have any questions please ask them at the Media copyright questions page. Thank you.

BetacommandBot (talk) 21:57, 2 January 2008 (UTC)

 * I've added the article names to the rationale. Hopefully that should satisfy the bot. -- Zsero (talk) 04:50, 3 January 2008 (UTC)

"See below" - where, exactly
"The school's traditional local rivals are Porridge Court and Hogwarts (see below), who regularly beat them at sporting events."

There *is* no further mention of Hogwarts below (at the time of writing). Sloppy editing. (As usual).

Thoroughly disillusioned
... by the way Wikipedia *continues* to deliver low-resolution "mobile" versions of articles to devices which are high resolution. This is, as the English saying goes, "piss-poor". Wikipedia may be a volunteer run, charity-type organisation (albeit one which delivers one heck of an income! directly or indirectly, and fame a-plenty to Mr. Wales), but there really is no excuse for such appalling understanding of HTML, CSS and modern device resolution. In this respect the Wikipedia experience is set in the technological Stone Age. "Get a grip", Wikipedia (as another English saying goes). <>

 * Firstly - please signed your posts so we know who's posting. Instead of moaning - get stuck in and help improve the site.  Brookie :) { - he's in the building somewhere!}  (Whisper...) 17:25, 29 September 2014 (UTC)

Influence of Molesworth books in literature cheers cheers
Research opportunity. tho nigel's books are foolishly forgotten boo sucks you kno who was reading them when you realize moles worth's diaryvoice and attitude to world are identacle to Bridget Jones diary and the name "Hogwarts" appears in Molesworth so any fule kno what grate lady novelist hem hem never forgot reading him when she was a gurl Profhum (talk) 04:58, 26 June 2016 (UTC)

Searle disillusioned?
How, pray, was Searle 'disillusioned' by his own St Trinian's creation? Was he perhaps merely weary of it, having run out of ideas? Disgruntled, perchance might be another word? Disenchanted ? 2001:44B8:3102:BB00:E56B:9377:5DBE:2E29 (talk) 19:59, 11 February 2018 (UTC)

Original Molesworth
Willans' original Molesworth series dates from the years of WWII. Some have been reprinted in 'The Punch Book of Kids' (ed. Coren). Hutchinson, 1974 ISBN 0091212006. The humour is somewhat difficult to appreciate, being much concerned with then current events, using ephemeral war-time slang, addressing war-time issues etc. For example, Nigel and brother are temporarily relocated to a girls' school, due to their father (mistakenly) being sent on embarkation leave. The situation is puzzling now, but must have made sense, and been comedic material, at the time. BTW,FWIW, and IMNSHO, the Adrian Mole series owes much to this early Willans. There is much in this WWII series about the hapless Molesworth parents, and even a spirited grandmother - all very 'Mole-ish' 59.167.234.198 (talk) 23:27, 26 April 2018 (UTC)

So called phonetic spelling
Does anyone know - in order that the article can explain - why the spelling in these books is as it is? It is not phonetic, as stated, because this means "relating to speech sounds". The famous phrase "as any fule kno" isn't phonetic inasmuch as it reads back as "as any fool know", which isn't anything anyone would say. One would say "as any fool knows" and phonetically this would become "as any fule knose", or something.

This dropping of the last s of the third person is passim throughout the books. There are further examples on the article: "it is only fotherington-tomas he sa Hullo clouds hullo sky he is a girlie and love the scents and sounds of nature", i.e. "he say hullo, he love the scents"; and in this talk section, "She also refer to molesworth 2".

I get that an illiterate schoolboy might spell phonetically but what's up with these examples, which are non-phonetic?Tirailleur (talk) 11:39, 22 January 2020 (UTC)

The headmaster's school
I just discovered that there is a Stoke-on-Trent College. JHobson3 (talk) 13:09, 26 February 2020 (UTC)

 * Looks a bit, well, modern for GRIMES to have studied there. Anyone been able to find out when it was established? Mr Larrington (talk) 00:33, 10 June 2023 (UTC)

title: Talk:Nigel Molesworth


text:
Quarry Bay

Quarry Bay is an area beneath Mount Parker in the Eastern District of Hong Kong Island, in Hong Kong. Quarry Bay is bordered by Sai Wan Ho to the east, Mount Parker to the south, North Point to the west, and Victoria Harbour to the north.

Quarry Bay is a residential and business district in Hong Kong. One Island East, the seventh tallest building in Hong Kong, is located in Quarry Bay. Some government departments such as the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council have relocated their offices from Central and Wan Chai to Quarry Bay over the years, and some multinational companies have their offices located in the district, such as Ernst & Young, BNP Paribas, LVMH and Boston Consulting Group, etc. Cityplaza and Kornhill Plaza, being one of the largest shopping malls on Hong Kong Island is at Quarry Bay.

With dense population as well as developed economic and commercial activities in the district, Quarry Bay has a considerable traffic demand. It is one of the transportation hubs in Hong Kong. There are two MTR stations in the district, being Quarry Bay Station and Taikoo Station. Quarry Bay Station is the intersection of the Island line and Tseung Kwan O line. Other transportation means in the district include buses, minibuses, and trams.

History
The 1819 edition of the Gazetteer of Sun On County did not mention today's Quarry Bay. Historians such as Anthony Kwok Kin Siu suggested Quarry Bay was a remote area before British colonial time.

During colonial Hong Kong times, the Hakka stonemasons settled in the area after the British arrival.

This area was a bay where rock from the hillsides were quarried and transported by ship for building construction or road building. The Chinese name Tsak Yue Chung reveals that it was a small stream where crucian carp  could be found in the 19th century. The English name was Arrow Fish Creek. The original bay has disappeared since land reclamation has taken place, and was about 700 m from the current coastline.

Taikoo
The eastern part of Quarry Bay, namely Quarry Point, was largely owned by Swire and therefore many places and facilities are named after the company's Chinese name, Taikoo. The river originally flowed into the bay, however it was shut off from the sea with the construction of the Tai Koo Reservoir to supply fresh water to the Taikoo Dockyard, the Taikoo Sugar factory at Tong Chong Street, and later the Swire Coca-Cola factory at Greig Road and Yau Man Street. The upper course of the river was converted into a cement-paved catchwater, and the lower course is the present-day Quarry Bay Street, with the original estuary near the Quarry Bay Street – King's Road junction.

In the mid-1980s, the hillside was converted into Kornhill apartment buildings, the reservoir into Mount Parker Lodge apartment buildings, and the Dockyard into Taikoo Shing. The Coca-Cola factory is now apartment Kornville, and Taikoo Sugar is now the Taikoo Place, a commercial hub.

Lai Chi
The western end of Quarry Bay was historically part of North Point; during the 1930s its beaches became one of the most popular places for holding swimming galas in Hong Kong. From this basis an upmarket entertainment complex, the Ritz Nightclub, was built in the area in 1947. The nightclub was demolished a few years later to make way for the construction of apartment buildings during the latter half of the 1950s. Nonetheless, for years afterwards, the western part of Quarry Bay continued to be known informally as Lai Chi, made more so by the name being homophone to Cantonese for "late as usual" – a reference to King's Road, until 1984 the only thoroughfare in the area and thus infamous for traffic congestion.

To this day, some buildings in the western part of Quarry Bay are named as "North Point something building", although they are across the modern-day limit of North Point at Man Hong Street / Healthy Street West.

Location
Quarry Bay is considered as an area surrounded by Kornhill Road to the east, Hong Shing Street and Mount Parker Road to the south, junction of King's Road and Healthy Street West to the west, and

Commercial buildings

 * Taikoo Place: One of the business districts in Hong Kong. Commercial buildings include: One Island East, Devon House, Dorset House, Cambridge House, Lincoln House, Oxford House, Westlands Centre, Berkshire House, One Taikoo Place and Two Taikoo Place. Tenants include Ernst & Young, BNP Paribas, Royal Bank of Canada, LVMH, Boston Consulting Group, Freshfields, Accenture etc.
 * Cityplaza: It includes 1111 King's Road, 12 Taikoo Bay Road, and 14 Taikoo Bay Road. Tenants include Deloitte, Thomson Reuters, American Express, FWD Group etc.
 * AIA Hong Kong Tower
 * K11 ATELIER King's Road
 * 625 King's Road
 * Chinachem Exchange Square

Also, a few industrial buildings exist in the areas of Shipyard Lane.

Former
 * Fresh Produce Market
 * Gala I, Gala II cinemas
 * Mount Parker House     栢嘉商業大廈

Residential buildings

 * Bedford Gardens
 * CASA 880
 * Dragon View House
 * Granview Court
 * The Floridian
 * Healthy Village Estate
 * Kings View Court
 * Kornhill, and Kornhill Gardens
 * Model Housing Estate
 * "Monster Building" – Fook Cheong Building, Montane Mansion, Oceanic Mansion, Yick Cheong Building and Yick Fat Building
 * Mount Parker Residences
 * Nan Fung Sun Chuen
 * Novum East
 * Oceanic Building
 * The Orchards
 * Park Vale
 * Ritz Garden Apartments
 * Riviera Mansion
 * Royal Terrace
 * Snowboat Mansion
 * Splendid Place
 * Sunway Gardens
 * Taikoo Shing
 * Wah Shun Garden
 * Westlands Court
 * Westlands Garden

Nan Fung Sun Chuen
Nan Fung Sun Chuen, built in 1978, is a private apartment estate. Consisting of 12 buildings distributed along Greig Road and Greig Crescent with a car park at the centre of the development, it was developed by Nan Fung Development. Because of the relatively large size of the development, it serves as the benchmark for premises developed in the late 1970s in the property market. The tower blocks range in height from 28 to 33 floors. Blocks 1 to 5 are at 32 to 40 (even numbers) Greig Road while blocks 6 to 12 are at 27 to 15 Greig Crescent.

Taikoo Shing
Taikoo Shing is a private residential development in Quarry Bay. Consisting of 61 mansions distributed along Taikoo Wan Road & Taikoo Shing Road, it was developed by Swire.

Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery
The Alexander Grantham was a fireboat of Hong Kong's Fire Services Department. The fireboat was named after former Governor Sir Alexander Grantham. The boat has since retired from service and been replaced by other vessels.

On 10 March 2006, the fireboat was successfully hoisted into its new permanent home in the Central Concourse of Quarry Bay Park, Hong Kong, where it has been converted into the Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery and was opened to the public as a museum in 2007. In addition to the fireboat itself, the Gallery houses a number of multimedia exhibits on the vessel's history and on firefighting in Hong Kong.

"Monster Building" complex
"Monster Building" is a condominium complex of five interconnected buildings. The complex consists of Fook Cheong Building, Montane Mansion, Oceanic Mansion, Yick Cheong Building, and Yick Fat Building.

Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre
Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre situated at Mount Parker Road, Quarry Bay. The centre comprises three themed exhibition galleries introducing Hong Kong's precious natural resources and biodiversity. The centre aims to foster public awareness, knowledge and understanding the inherent value of Hong Kong's biodiversity assets and to marshal public support and action for nature conservation.

Government
The head office of the Securities and Futures Commission is in One Island East in Quarry Bay.

Parks and recreational facilities

 * Quarry Bay Park
 * Quarry Bay Municipal Services Building – with indoor playground and a public library managed by LSCD
 * Greig Road Sitting-out Area
 * Tai Tam Country Park (Quarry Bay Extension)

Education
Quarry Bay is in Primary One Admission (POA) School Net 14. Within the school net are multiple aided schools (operated independently but funded with government money) and North Point Government Primary School.

Kindergartens & Nurseries
 * ABC Pathways International Kindergarten (Tai Koo Campus)
 * Creativity (Park Vale) Kindergarten
 * Epoch Anglo-Chinese Kindergarten
 * Hamilton Hill International Kindergarten
 * MAGART International Kindergarten
 * Saint Anna Anglo-Chinese Kindergarten
 * Victoria (Kornhill) Kindergarten
 * Victoria (Kornhill) Nursery

Primary schools
 * Buddhist Chung Wah Kornhill Primary School
 * Canossa School (Hong Kong)
 * Chinese Methodist School North Point
 * Delia School of Canada
 * North Point Government Primary School
 * Shanghai Alumni Primary School
 * Tai Koo Primary School

Secondary schools
 * Canossa College
 * Delia School of Canada

Public transport

 * MTR
 * MTR Quarry Bay station: Tseung Kwan O line and Island line
 * MTR Tai Koo station: Island line
 * Trams
 * First Bus
 * Citybus
 * KMB (serves only cross-harbour routes)
 * Minibuses
 * to Kornhill, Cyberport, North Point, Shau Kei Wan, Kennedy Town, etc.
 * includes 32, 32A, 33 etc.

Major thoroughfares, roads and streets

 * Island Eastern Corridor
 * Eastern Harbour Crossing
 * Finnie Street
 * Greig Road
 * Java Road
 * King's Road
 * Kornhill Road
 * Mansion Lane
 * Model Lane
 * Mount Parker Road
 * Quarry Bay Street
 * Sai Wan Terrace
 * Shipyard Lane
 * Taikoo Shing Road
 * Taikoo Wan Road
 * Tsat Tsz Mui Road
 * Tong Chong Street
 * Westlands Road

Hiking
Quarry Bay is home to multiple hiking trails, including the Mount Parker Road Green Trail and the Hong Pak Country Trail, which connects further to nearby trails.

Facilities
The Woodside Biodiversity Education Center (also known as the Red House) is a biodiversity centre housing local animal species and displays of educational resources on Hong Kong wildlife. The centre is situated on Mount Parker Road, with benches available nearby for picnics.

Wartime remains including the Wartime Stoves and Anti-Air-Raid Caves are preserved throughout Mount Parker Road Green Trail and the Hong Pak Country Trail.

Hikes throughout Quarry Bay are often packed with resting benches, washrooms, pavilions, mappings as well as trash bins.

Mountains
Mount Butler, Mount Parker and Siu Ma Shan are mountains available for hiking. These mountains are linked towards more hiking options such as the Jardine's Lookout or approach for Tai Tam Reservoirs.

Nearby areas
Stanley can be reached from Tai Tam Reservoirs via Violet Hill and The Twins. Shek O Country Park is also reachable from Tai Tam Reservoirs, which offer more hiking options.

Tai Tam Reservoirs is situated near the Wong Lai Chung Reservoir Park.

title: Quarry Bay


text:
Arafura Games

The Arafura Games is a multi-sport event where athletes with a disability compete in the same program as able-bodied athletes. Competitors from around the world compete in the week-long games held every 2 years in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.

Called a "meeting of Sporting Neighbours", the Arafura Games takes its name from the Arafura Sea, which lies between northern Australia and Southeast Asia. Nations along the Arafura Sea originally formed the basis of the Arafura Games, however in recent years countries from further afield have participated, including United States, England, Brazil and Liechtenstein.

History
First held in 1991. A foundation sport of the Arafura Games, Basketball has grown from a 4 team competition with teams from around the Darwin region to an 8 team international competition with teams from all over the world. The Games were known as the Arafura Sports Festival up until 1997. These Games were the first ever international sporting festival to have Australian Rules Football as an international competition sport in its own right. The International Australian Football Council was formed after the 1995 Games, playing an important role in promoting Aussie Rules until dissolving in 2001.

The Arafura Games were cancelled in 2003 due to concern over the SARS virus. From 2005 onwards, the Arafura Games included events for athletes with physical disabilities. The 2007 Arafura Games received patronage from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

In 2011, the Arafura Games incorporated the Oceania Paralympic Championships for the sports of athletics, swimming, powerlifting, and table tennis.

The 2013 Arafura Games was cancelled by the newly elected CLP government on 31 October 2012 as it "costs too much to run".

After an eight-year hiatus, the 2019 Arafura Games were held from 27 April to 4 May 2019.

The 2021 games were postponed until 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however it was later announced by the then Major Events Minister Natasha Fyles, that all future Arafura Games were to be scrapped.

Basketball
Conducted under Federation of International Basketball Associations (FIBA) conditions and Guidelines, Basketball is played at the Darwin Basketball Stadium, Abala Road Marrara, in the Marrara Sporting Complex.

In recent years, USA squad players from university teams dominated the competition. The Northern Territory team have been shaded in the last 4 Arafura Games by the Americans and only their depth on the bench has let them down. The Northern Territory have won the Silver medal in the past 4 Arafura games. 2007 Arafura Games Basketball results:

 * Gold 	United States of America: USA Colleges
 * Silver 	Northern Territory: Northern Territory
 * Bronze 	Australian Indigenous: Australian Indigenous
 * Bronze 	Australian Indigenous: Australian Indigenous
 * Bronze 	Australian Indigenous: Australian Indigenous

Sports

 * Athletics – including Paralympic athletics and Olympic events
 * Badminton (2007, 2009, 2019, 2023)
 * Basketball
 * Boxing
 * Cricket – Twenty20 format
 * Field hockey
 * Football (soccer) – including Paralympic football events
 * Golf
 * International lifesaving
 * Muay Thai
 * Sepak takraw
 * Shooting – Clay Target
 * Shooting – Pistol (IPSC)
 * Shooting – Pistol/Air Rifle (ISSF)
 * Squash
 * Swimming – including Paralympic swimming events
 * Table tennis – including Paralympic table tennis events
 * Ten-pin bowling
 * Triathlon
 * Volleyball
 * Weightlifting – including Paralympic powerlifting events
 * Water polo

Other sports played at the Arafura Games:
 * Netball

Participating countries

 * East Asia
 * South Asia
 * Central Asia
 * SouthEast Asia
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 * Central Asia
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 * Oceania/ Pacific
 * AUS States/ territories
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * AUS States/ territories
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * AUS States/ territories
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * AUS Other
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians
 * Australian Defence Force
 * [[Image:Australian Aboriginal Flag.svg|22px]] Indigenous Australians

 * The Americas

 * The Persian Gulf

 * Europe
 * Africa
 * Africa
 * Africa
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title: Arafura Games


text:
Ronn Owens

Ronn Owens (born Ronald Lowenstein on October 17, 1945, in New York City), is the host of The Ronn Owens Report, a ten-minute weekday radio program airing on KGO in San Francisco.

Career
Owens began his career in broadcasting in 1968 after graduating from Temple University. He hosted radio programs in Atlanta, Miami, Cleveland, and Philadelphia before moving to KGO Radio of San Francisco in 1975. In 2004, the Disney/ABC-owned station signed Owens to an eight-year guaranteed contract to continue hosting The Ronn Owens Program. At its peak, the program had more than 500,000 regular listeners.

Owens was off the KGO airwaves during an 88-day contract dispute that ended in February 1995. Reportedly, the dispute involved a difference of opinion over whether to allow national syndication of his show.

Between 1997 and 1998, Owens' show was simulcast in Los Angeles on KABC, also owned by Disney. Owens took the time slot held by Michael Jackson, whose ratings were declining. Despite signing a five-year contract to do the simulcast, after one year Owens vacated the time slot at KABC, because his show had failed to generate adequate ratings in Los Angeles. Owens reportedly blamed both Jackson and KABC — Jackson for "taking shots" at Owens "on the air and off the air" and KABC for failing to promote Owens' show. Disney reportedly bought out the remainder of Owens' simulcast contract.

Ronn Owens left his broadcast two hours early on Monday, September 17, 2007, after spending his first hour sounding very lethargic. He returned to the air on September 24, 2007, explaining that he had been diagnosed with transient global amnesia (TGA), a type of amnesia involving the sudden, temporary disturbance in an otherwise healthy person's memory. In Owens' case it was triggered by the adverse interaction of two prescription drugs.

On December 2, 2011, KGO fired all of its on-air show hosts except for Owens. He remained in the 9 a.m.-to-noon slot, with the other hours being all-news or Bloomberg Radio. On March 31, 2016, Owens announced that as of April 4, 2016 he would be moving to the 3 p.m.-to-6 p.m. slot on KGO's sister station, KSFO. On April 4, 2016, Owens announced that he would remain at KGO, but in a modified time slot of 10 a.m. to Noon. Owens has a personal services contract with the station that does not allow for early termination. Owens was paid more than $1 million per year, the highest salary for a broadcaster in northern California. On January 1, 2013, Owens signed a two-year guaranteed contract extension.

Owens was elected into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame in 2007 as a member of the second class to be inducted. In November 2015, he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in Chicago (cite Chicago Tribune), which the Atlanta Constitution called "the greatest honor a radio professional can achieve." He has also won two Marconi Awards as "Large Market Personality of the Year" in 2003 and 2010. (CITE National Association of Broadcasters).

After 42 years hosting his talk show on KGO Radio, on January 16, 2018, he began hosting a ten-minute feature, The Ronn Owens Report, which aired at 12:50 PM and 3:50PM weekdays. It featured interviews and observations from the "Voice of the Bay Area." (cite San Francisco Chronicle) The report contained interviews and observations from Ronn on political and pop culture issues.

Highlights and accomplishments
In 2002, Talkers Magazine named Owens one of its 25 Greatest Radio Talk Show Hosts of All Time. He was ranked 13th, making him the top local personality in the country.

In 2003 and again in 2010, Owens won the Marconi Award for Major Market Personality of the Year by the National Association of Broadcasters.

In 2006, he was named 2006 Talk Show Personality of the Year by Radio & Records.

In 2007, he was inducted into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame.

In 2015 he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.

Personal
Owens is married to former KGO and KCBS Radio news anchor/talk host Jan Black. They have two daughters.

In August, 2014, Owens revealed that he had had Parkinson's disease for more than 12 years. He indicated that his Parkinson's disease has progressed slowly and he had not wanted to make his condition public knowledge until that time. In part, the recent death of comedian Robin Williams, who also had Parkinson's disease, became the deciding factor in Owens' decision to go public on his condition.

title: Ronn Owens


text:
Foreign language

A foreign language is a language that is not an official language of, nor typically spoken in, a specific country. Native speakers from that country usually need to acquire it through conscious learning, such as through language lessons at school, self-teaching, or attending language courses. A foreign language might be learned as a second language; however, there is a distinction between the two terms. A second language refers to a language that plays a significant role in the region where the speaker lives, whether for communication, education, business, or governance. Consequently, a second language is not necessarily a foreign language.

Children who learn more than one language from birth or at a very young age are considered bilingual or multilingual. These children can be said to have two, three, or more mother tongues, meaning these languages would not be considered foreign to them, even if one language is a foreign language for the majority of people in the child's birth country. For instance, a child learning English from their English parent and Irish at school in Ireland can speak both English and Irish, but neither is a foreign language for them. This situation is common in countries like India, South Africa, or Canada, which have multiple official languages.

In general, it is believed that children have an advantage in learning foreign languages compared to adults. However, studies have shown that pre-existing knowledge of language and grammar rules, as well as a superior ability to memorize vocabulary, may benefit adults when learning foreign languages.

Foreign-language education and ability
Most schools around the world teach at least one foreign language and most colleges and high schools require foreign language before graduation. By 1998, nearly all pupils in Europe studied at least one foreign language as part of their compulsory education, the only exception being Ireland, where primary and secondary schoolchildren learn both Irish and English, but neither is considered a foreign language (although Irish pupils do study a third European language). On average in Europe, at the start of foreign-language teaching, learners have lessons for three to four hours a week. Compulsory lessons in a foreign language normally start at the end of primary school or the start of secondary school. In Luxembourg, Norway and Malta, however, the first foreign language is studied at age six, and in Flanders at age 10. In Wales, all children are taught Welsh from the first year of primary school. The Welsh language is also compulsory up to the age of 16, although a formal GCSE qualification is optional.

In some countries, learners have lessons taken entirely in a foreign language: for example, more than half of European countries with a minority/regional language community use partial immersion to teach both the minority and the state language. This method is also highly used in Canada, wherein anglophone students spend all of most of their lessons learning the materials in French.

In 1995, the European Commission's White Paper on Education and Training emphasised the importance of schoolchildren learning at least two foreign languages before upper secondary education. The Lisbon Summit of 2000 defined languages as one of the five key skills.

Despite the high rate of foreign-language teaching in schools, the number of adults claiming to speak a foreign language is generally lower than might be expected. This is particularly true of native English speakers: in 2004 a British survey by recruitment firm Office Angels showed that fewer than one in 10 UK workers could speak a foreign language and that less than 5% could count to 20 in a second language. In 2012, a European Commission survey found that 61% of respondents in the UK were unlikely to speak any language other than their mother tongue (page 5).

Since the 1990s, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages has tried to standardise the learning of languages across Europe.

An article from The Atlantic claims that only 1 percent of the adults within the US population consider themselves proficient in speaking a foreign language. This is in stark contrast to many other countries, where the percentage is much higher. Even though there are many benefits that come with learning a foreign language, schools across the United States continue to cut foreign language from their budgets.

Instruments for foreign-language learning
In recent years, computer-assisted language learning has been integrated into foreign-language education and computer programs with varying levels of interactional relationship between computer and the language learner have been developed. Language learning aids such as foreign-language writing aid and foreign-language reading aid, targeted at the specific language skills of foreign-language learners, are also alternative instruments available for foreign-language learners.

Research into foreign-language learning
Learning a foreign language provides various benefits, ranging from improving career opportunities to enhancing cognitive abilities.

In 2004, the Michel Thomas Language Centre in the United Kingdom conducted a study that found that speaking a second language could increase an average worker's salary by £3000 (€3 300) a year, or £145 000 (€159 000) in a lifetime, and are also more likely to be more successful with the opposite sex. Further results showed that nine out of 10 British companies thought their businesses could benefit from better language skills. Studies show that a bilingual or multilingual person can earn much more than a computer programmer or engineer because they can use their abilities in foreign language to obtain success in a wide range of career paths. In addition, due to the increase in the number of people from different parts of the world, a multilingual person can more easily communicate with prospective customers.

Also in 2004, a study by University College London (UCL) examined the brains of 105 people who could speak more than one language. The study found that people who learned a second language when younger had denser grey matter than those who learned one later. Grey matter is an area of the brain where information is most efficiently processed, due to the function of specialized cells called neurons. The researchers concluded that learning a second language changes the structure of the brain and enhances its functionality.

A series of experiments on more than 300 people from the U.S. and Korea found that thinking in a second language reduced deep-seated, misleading biases that unduly influence how risks and benefits are perceived.

Other research has shown that early exposure to a second language increases divergent thinking strategies, which helps not only in language-related tasks, but also in areas such as math. Children who are exposed to a second language early on have different ways of expressing themselves, which helps them better understand that there is more than one way to look at a problem and that there is more than one solution.

Another benefit of learning a foreign language is that it improves one's attention span and ability to multitask. A study by the University of the Potomac found that bilinguals have better control over their attention and can switch between tasks more easily than monolinguals. This is because bilinguals have to constantly monitor which language they are using and suppress the interference from the other language. This mental exercise trains their executive function, which is responsible for planning, organizing, problem-solving and decision-making. Learning a foreign language also boosts one's creativity, as it exposes them to new ways of expressing ideas and thinking outside the box.

Learning a foreign language also has positive effects on one's first language. According to the Cambridge Assessment English blog, learning another language helps students improve their literacy skills in their native language, as they become more aware of grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure. Learning a foreign language also enhances one's understanding of other cultures and perspectives, as they can access more information and entertainment sources in different languages and communicate with people from diverse backgrounds. This can foster empathy, tolerance and respect for others.

In summary, learning a foreign language is not only useful for practical purposes, but also beneficial for cognitive, social and personal development. It can improve one's brain power, memory, concentration, creativity, communication skills and cultural awareness. It can also open up new opportunities for education, work and travel. Therefore, learning a foreign language is a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to enrich their lives and broaden their horizons.

Foreign language versus second language
Although significant differences between the definitions of second language and foreign language may be hard to find as the two terms are often taken as synonyms, research has been carried out to shed light on the differentiating traits of the two. The distinction between acronyms TESL (Teaching of English as a Second Language) and TEFL (Teaching of English as a Foreign Language) shows the attention different researchers have paid to the concepts of foreign language and second language.

Richards and Schmidt (2002: 472) provide the following information about second language:

"In a broad sense, any language learned after one has learnt one's native language [is called second language]. However, when contrasted with foreign language, the term refers more narrowly to a language that plays a major role in a particular country or region though it may not be the first language of many people who use it. For example, the learning of English by immigrants in the US or the learning of Catalan by speakers of Spanish in Catalonia (an autonomous region of Spain) are cases of second (not foreign) language learning, because those languages are necessary for survival in those societies. English is also a second language for many people in countries like Nigeria, India, Singapore and the Philippines (plus Spanish), because English fulfills many important functions in those countries (including the business of education and government) and Learning English is necessary to be successful within that context. (Some people in these countries however may acquire English as a first language, if it is the main language used at home)."

They also define a foreign language as a language which is not the native language of large numbers of people in a particular country of region, is not used as a medium of instruction in schools and is not widely used as a medium of communication in government, media, etc. They note that foreign languages are typically taught as school subjects for the purpose of communicating with foreigners or for reading printed materials in the language. For example, French is a foreign language for most people in England. However, French is not a foreign language for most people in France.

Crystal (2003) notes that first language is distinguishable from second language (a language other than one's mother-tongue used for a special purpose, e.g. for education, government) distinguishable in turn from foreign language (where no such special status is implied). He also notes that the distinction between the latter two is not universally recognised (especially not in the US).

Stern (1983) believes that there is today consensus that a necessary distinction is to be made between a non-native language learnt and used within one country to which the term second language has been applied and a non-native language learnt and used with reference to a speech community outside national or territorial boundaries to which the term foreign language is commonly given. He argues that while the distinction between 'second' and 'foreign' has a certain justification, it is perhaps less important than it has sometimes been made out to be and it may be misleading. He notes that the distinction became popular after World War II in international organisations, such as UNESCO, in order to meet nationalist susceptibilities in discussions on language questions.

Fasold and Connor-Linton (2006), Falk (1978) and Hudson (2000) provide similar definitions for the two terms. O'Grady et al. (1384) do not mention the exact terms 'second' and 'foreign' language, but they emphasise on the role of learning environment in teaching non-native languages.

So, the distinction between 'second language' and 'foreign language' is a geographical and environmental distinction. We can mention 'second-language situation' and 'foreign-language situation' as two situations of learning, not two kinds of languages. So a foreign language is not always a foreign language and a second language is not always a second language. Since the distinction is geographical, the two situations (learning second language and learning foreign language) can be considered as a continuum. At one extreme, we may find learners learning without external help and direction purely from exposure to the non-native language through living in the target language environment (second-language learning) and at the other we find learners learning the non-native language exclusively in language teaching setting and classrooms (foreign-language learning).

A 'second language' usually has official status or a recognised function within a country which a foreign language has not and furthermore these two different situations frequently have important consequences to which attention has been drawn in some books. For example, Persian is a second language for Kurdish people, but not vice versa, because there is no Kurdish environment for Persian speakers who are learning Kurdish. On the other hand, English is a foreign language for both groups, because there is no contact between Kurdish and Persian people with English people. However, if an Iranian person goes to United States, then English becomes a second language for them. Thus, British immigrants to Iran learn Persian as a second language, and Persian speakers study English in Britain as a second language. Meanwhile, people in Kurdistan can speak of learning Kurdish by Persian speakers as a second rather than foreign language.

The purposes of second-language learning are often different from foreign-language learning. Second language is needed for full participation in the political and economic life of the nation, because it is frequently the official language or one of two or more recognised languages. It may be the language needed for education. Among the purposes of foreign-language learning are traveling abroad, communication with native speakers, reading foreign literature or scientific and technical works.

There are some major differences between foreign and second language teaching and learning. In second-language learning, one can receive input for learning both inside and outside the classroom. They can readily put to use what is learned, as can the child learning its first language, so much naturalistic practice is possible.

Second-language learners are usually more successful in developing non-native language skills and what is learned may be essential for getting along in the community, so motivation is stronger.

Acculturation that is a main aspect of learning a language is easier in the case of second-language learning and the emotional role of language (as opposed to communicational role) is easier to use for learners.

The major characteristics of the planned condition of the classroom in the case of foreign-language learning as opposed to natural conditions of second-language learning are:

 * 1) Psycho-social demands of classroom: The school classroom requires adjustment of the learner to the group processes, classroom discipline and procedures. The learner receives only a limited amount of individual attention. Regular attendance is required.
 * 2) Preselected language data: The teacher generally introduces preselected target language items. Spontaneity is limited. A planned curriculum is followed with the teacher attempting to realize certain goals regarding the language that is to be learned.
 * 3) Grammatical rules presented. The teacher may describe a rule in the native language to explain a grammatical structure. The teacher is expected to understand, assimilate and later apply the abstract rule.
 * 4) Unreal limited situations. Situations for language use in the classroom are limited in variety and scope as compared to those outside of the classroom. The situations which are employed are often simulated.
 * 5) Educational aids and assignments. In order to assist learning and achieve teacher goals, books, writing or a language lab, for example, may be used. Work assignments may be given to be completed in the class or at home.

There are some other issues in teaching and learning foreign language and second language including the type of motivation and the distinction between 'learning' and 'acquisition' that I will discuss them in separate parts.

Acquisition versus learning
In linguistic and pedagogic literature, there is often a distinction made between acquisition and language learning. Children are said to 'acquire' their native language, as they begin with no prior information or knowledge, whereas adults are said to 'learn' a non-native language. Acquisition is viewed as a natural, unconscious, untaught, and possibly unteachable process, while learning is seen as more artificial, usually conscious and possibly dependent on instruction and study.

This distinction between acquisition and learning can be useful in discussing language learning, as the general conditions in the case of second language acquisition offer opportunities for acquisition, as it is informal, free, undirected, and naturalistic. Conversely, in the case of foreign language learning, educational treatment may offer opportunities primarily for learning.

However, it is important to note that acquisition can occur in the case of foreign-language learning, and learning can occur in the case of second-language learning. For example, immigrants to the US may attend language teaching classes in the target language environment, allowing for both acquisition and learning. Similarly, foreign-language learners who are far from the target language environment may still acquire language through exposure to media such as foreign radio or literature.

In conclusion, while the distinction between acquisition and learning is useful in understanding language acquisition and learning, it is important to recognize that both processes can occur in various language learning contexts. Therefore, it is essential to employ a variety of language learning strategies and techniques, tailored to the specific learner's needs and goals, to maximize language acquisition and learning.

title: Foreign language


text:
Avalon (American group)

Avalon Worship, originally known as Avalon, is an American contemporary Christian vocal quartet from Nashville, Tennessee, formed in 1995. The group has earned multiple RIAA-certified gold records. The group consists of Janna Long, Greg Long, Jody McBrayer, and Dani Rocca.

1995–97
Avalon was formed in 1995 in Nashville after Norman Miller of Proper Management took the idea of a vocal group to Grant Cunningham, A&R Director at Sparrow Records. Cunningham attended an artist showcase in Nashville where he heard singer Michael Passons and made Passons the first Avalon member. Former Truth vocalist and South Carolina native Janna Potter (later Janna Long) became the group's second member.

Rikk Kittlemann and Tabitha Fair became part of the group, but each left after a short time. Long contacted McBrayer, her former Truth bandmate, who became a member of the group. Nikki Hassman-Anders was the fourth founding vocalist of Avalon. Hassman recorded two albums with Avalon, Avalon (1996) and A Maze of Grace (1997), before leaving in May 1998 to pursue a solo career with Sony Records.

1998–02
Cherie Paliotta (later Cherie Adams) replaced Hassman in the group. Adams recorded four albums with Avalon: In a Different Light (1999), Joy: A Christmas Collection (2000), Oxygen (2001), and a remix album, O2: Avalon Remixed (March 2002).

Adams departed the group and was replaced by former Truth member Melissa Greene in September 2002.

In September 2002, McBrayer released a solo album, This Is Who I Am, that included the Top 10 duet with Jadyn Maria "Never Alone (Nunca Solo)" and a No. 1 single "To Ever Live Without Me." Long released a self-titled solo album in October 2002 which contained the No. 2 song "Greater Is He".

2003–06
On March 25, 2003, Avalon released a greatest hits record, Testify to Love: The Very Best of Avalon, which featured two new singles that became No. 1 hits; "Everything to Me" and "New Day". It was the last album to include Passons.

Passons revealed in an interview in 2020 that he was forced out of Avalon due to his sexual orientation as a gay man and refusal to continue attending reparative therapy. Although a member of the group when it fired Passons, Greene has supported Passons. Passons was replaced by Long's husband, Greg.

On February 24, 2004, Avalon released the studio album The Creed, from which three singles were released, "All", which reached No. 2 on the Adult Contemporary Christian Songs chart; "You Were There," a No. 2 Inspirational Charts hit; and "I Wanna Be With You".

Avalon's sixth studio album, Stand, was released on January 24, 2006. The single "Love Won't Leave You" peaked in the Top 20 of Billboard Hot Christian Songs and Hot Christian Adult Contemporary charts. The single, "Orphans of God" peaked in the Top 5 of Radio & Records ' Inspo chart the week of August 11, 2006. "Somehow You Are" was released to radio in August 2006.

On October 17, 2006, Avalon released a hymns album Faith: A Hymns Collection.

2007–09
In 2007, McBrayer left Avalon the group after being diagnosed with a heart condition known as hypertrophic cardiomyoparthy.

On February 26, 2008, Avalon released its ninth album, Another Time, Another Place: Timeless Christian Classics. A headlining "The We Will Stand Tour" followed the album's release, with Michael English, the Daniel Doss Band, and Cadia.

The first single released from Another Time, Another Place was Avalon's cover of the Twila Paris song "God Is in Control." The second single, released on November 5, 2007, was a remake of the Sandi Patty/Wayne Watson song "Another Time, Another Place." On November 13, 2007, Avalon released Another Time, Another Place EP, a digital EP featuring three singles from the album, "God is in Control" and "Another Time, Another Place," and a cover of the Amy Grant song "Thy Word."

Jeremi Richardson joined the group in 2007 to replace McBrayer. Richardson had sung with the group Voices of Liberty at Walt Disney World. On November 11, 2007, Greene announced at a show in Spring Arbor, Michigan, that it was the first concert with Richardson officially being a member of the group.

In 2008, EMI CMG released Avalon: The Greatest Hits. The album featured a new song from Avalon, "Still My God." On March 31, 2009, "Still My God" became Avalon's first No. 1 single since "New Day" was released in 2003, from Avalon's previous greatest hits album.

On May 15, 2009, Melissa Greene announced her resignation from Avalon upon accepting a position as Pastor of Music and Arts at GracePointe Church in Nashville.

Richardson's wife, Amy, replaced Greene on May 21, 2009.

On May 19, 2009, Avalon recorded Reborn, its first studio album since Stand in 2006, on E1 Music, ending the group's affiliation with Sparrow Records. The first single, "Arise," was released to Christian radio in August 2009 and became Avalon's 22nd career No. 1 radio hit, topping Billboard 's Soft AC/Inspirational chart.

2018–present: Called
On August 7, 2018, after a decade as members of Avalon, Jeremi and Amy Richardson stopped touring. Avalon announced in their Facebook page the return of Jody McBrayer and the addition of new member, Dani Rocca. On October 24, 2018, Avalon announced that they had signed as the flagship artist with Red Street Records, a new label launched by Rascal Flatts bassist Jay DeMarcus. On November 1, 2018, they sang their debut concert as Avalon in Jacksonville, Florida on the opening night of the Greatest Hits Tour, organized by Newsong.

Avalon released "Keeper of My Heart" on December 7, 2019, 10 years after Avalon's previous radio single. It was followed by a new album, Called, on February 14, 2020 and tour.

In 2022, the group rebranded under the name Avalon Worship and have released their self-titled album under this moniker.

Current members

 * Janna (Potter) Long (1995–present)
 * Greg Long (2003–present)
 * Jody McBrayer (1995–2007, 2018–present)
 * Dani Rocca (2018–present)

Former members

 * Rikk Kittlemann (1995)
 * Tabitha Fair (1995–1996)
 * Nikki Hassman-Anders (1996–1998)
 * Cherie (Paliotta) Adams (1998–2002)
 * Michael Passons (1995–2003)
 * Melissa Greene (2002–2009)
 * Jeremi Richardson (2007–2018)
 * Amy McBride-Richardson (2009–2018)

Music videos

 * 2000: "In Not Of" music video
 * 2006: "In Christ Alone" music video; featured in Tribute to Ruth Graham
 * 2019: "Keeper of My Heart" music video

title: Avalon (American group)