title: Varicus

abstract:
Varicus is a genus of fish in the family Gobiidae, the gobies. They are native to the western Atlantic Ocean. The genus was recently reexamined, and several new species were described and added to the group in 2016. Species include:
  - Varicus adamsi Gilmore, Van Tassell & Tornabene 2016
  - Varicus benthonis
  - Varicus bucca C. R. Robins & J. E. Böhlke, 1961
  - Varicus cephalocellatus Gilmore, Van Tassell & Baldwin, 2016
  - Varicus decorum Van Tassell, Baldwin & Tornabene, 2016
  - Varicus lacerta Tornabene L, Robertson DR, Baldwin CC (2016) –
  - Varicus marilynae Gilmore, 1979
  - Varicus nigritus Gilmore, Van Tassell & Baldwin, 2016
  - Varicus prometheus Fuentes, Baldwin, Robertson, Lardizábal & Tornabene 2023
  - Varicus roatanensis Fuentes, Baldwin, Robertson, Lardizábal & Tornabene 2023
  - Varicus veliguttatus Van Tassell, Baldwin & Gilmore, 2016
  - Varicus vespa The whiteband goby was formerly known as Varicus imswe. This genus is closely related to genus Chriolepis, and now contains some species formerly included there.

text:
# Varicus

***Varicus*** is a genus of fish in the family Gobiidae, the gobies. They are native to the western Atlantic Ocean.

The genus was recently reexamined, and several new species were described and added to the group in 2016.

Species include:

The whiteband goby (*Paedovaricus imswe*) was formerly known as *Varicus imswe*. This genus is closely related to genus *Chriolepis*, and now contains some species formerly included there.

## InfoBox

| *Varicus* | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
| *Varicus lacerta* | |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Gobiiformes |
| Family: | Gobiidae |
| Genus: | *Varicus*
C. R. Robins & J. E. Böhlke, 1961 |
|
| Type species | |
| *Varicus bucca*
C. R. Robins & J. E. Böhlke, 1961 | |


title: Vanderhall Carmel

abstract: The Vanderhall Carmel is a three-wheeled roadster produced by the American vehicle manufacturer Vanderhall Motor Works.

text:
# Vanderhall Carmel

The **Vanderhall Carmel** is a three-wheeled roadster produced by the American vehicle manufacturer Vanderhall Motor Works.

## History

The two-seater was introduced in 2019 and is priced above Vanderhall Venice. From 2020, Vanderhall models will also be launched in Germany. The basic model is the *Blackjack* with a shortened windshield and black trim. The more expensive models can have, among other things, leather interiors, paddle shifters and a standard cap shade.

The model is named after the small town of Carmel-by-the-Sea in California.

## InfoBox

| Vanderhall Carmel | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 2019– |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | Roadster, sports car () |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.5 L SGE turbo I4 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3,700 mm (145.7 in) |
| Width | 1,750 mm (68.9 in) |
| Height | 1,140 mm (44.9 in) |


title: Vandergrift Historic District

abstract: The Vandergrift Historic District is a national historic district that is located in Vandergrift, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

text:
# Vandergrift Historic District

The **Vandergrift Historic District** is a national historic district that is located in Vandergrift, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

## History and architectural features

This district encompasses 625 contributing buildings and two contributing sites that are located in Vandergrift. They were built roughly between 1895 and 1925, and includes a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional properties. They were designed in a variety of popular architectural styles, including Romanesque, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival, and were laid out on a plan developed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Notable non-residential buildings include the casino, train station, company office building, and churches. The two contributing sites are landscaped parks.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

## InfoBox

|  | |
| --- | --- |
| Vandergrift Historic District | |
| U.S. National Register of Historic Places | |
| U.S. Historic district | |
|  | |
| Washington Avenue in Vandergrift, HABS photo, April 1990 | |
|  | |
| Location | Roughly bounded by Lincoln, Sherman, Franklin and Washington Aves., along the outer lot lines, Vandergrift, Pennsylvania |
| Coordinates | 40°36′09″N 79°33′44″W / 40.60250°N 79.56222°W / 40.60250; -79.56222 |
| Area | 88 acres (36 ha) |
| Built | 1895 |
| Architect | Olmsted, Frederick Law, Firm |
| Architectural style | Queen Anne, Romanesque, Colonial Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 95000525 |
| Added to NRHP | April 27, 1995 |


title: Varmint (album)

abstract: Varmint is an album by American jazz vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz, which was recorded in 2008 and released on Cuneiform. It was the second recording with his quintet Rolldown, featuring cornetist Josh Berman, saxophonist Aram Shelton, bassist Jason Roebke and drummer Frank Rosaly.

text:
# Varmint (album)

***Varmint*** is an album by American jazz vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz, which was recorded in 2008 and released on Cuneiform. It was the second recording with his quintet Rolldown, featuring cornetist Josh Berman, saxophonist Aram Shelton, bassist Jason Roebke and drummer Frank Rosaly.

## Reception

Professional ratings
| Review scores | |
| --- | --- |
| Source | Rating |
| *All About Jazz* |  |
| AllMusic |  |
| *Down Beat* |  |
| Tom Hull – on the Web | B+ |

In his review for AllMusic, Michael G. Nastos states "The second recording for Jason Adasiewicz with his quintet Rolldown takes the band into a distinct modern jazz arena, sporting equal parts of straight-ahead mainstream pacings alongside the bold, inventive, improvisational music of latter and current day Chicago."

The *Down Beat* review by Bill Meyer says "Their second effort, *Varmint*, shows growth exactly where it was most needed. The compositions are better developed, the playing more relaxed and fluid, and the record better represents the quintet’s onstage spirit."

The All About Jazz review by Troy Collins states "An impressive follow-up to a solid debut, *Varmint* finds Adasiewicz growing as a composer and improviser, shedding his influences while discovering his voice."

In a review for *JazzTimes* Bill Milkowski notes "There are bracing solo contributions from cornetist Josh Berman and pungent-toned alto saxophonist Aram Shelton, while bassist Jason Roebke and drummer Frank Rosaly provide lightly swinging momentum throughout."

In Point of Departure, Bill Shoemaker reviews the album combined with Josh Berman' *Old Idea* and concludes "They potentially have decades to refine this already remarkable partnership; at mid-century, these complementary albums may well be considered early milestones."

## Track listing

*All compositions by Jason Adasiewicz except as indicated* 1. "Green Grass" – 6:02
2. "Varmint" – 8:36
3. "Dagger" – 7:16
4. "Hide" – 7:54
5. "I Hope She Is Awake" – 6:36
6. "Punchbug" – 8:21
7. "The Griots" (Andrew Hill) – 6:08

## Personnel

## InfoBox

| Varmint | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
| Studio album by Jason Adasiewicz | |
| Released | 2009 |
| Recorded | August 2008 |
| Studio | Electrical Audio, Chicago |
| Genre | Jazz |
| Length | 50:53 |
| Label | Cuneiform |
| Jason Adasiewicz chronology | |
| *Rolldown*
(2008) ***Varmint***
(2009) *Sun Rooms*
(2010) | |


title: Varqá

abstract: Varqá was an eminent follower of Baháʼu'lláh, the founder of the Baháʼí Faith. Varqá was referred to by ʻAbdu'l-Bahá as a Hand of the Cause of God and was identified as one of the nineteen Apostles of Baháʼu'lláh. Baháʼu'lláh wrote a tablet addressed to Varqá, praising the high station of the King and Beloved of Martyrs.

text:
# Varqá

**Varqá** (Arabic: ورقا, born **Mírzá ʻAlí-Muhammad** (Persian: ميرزا علي محمد); died 1896) was an eminent follower of Baháʼu'lláh, the founder of the Baháʼí Faith. Varqá was referred to by ʻAbdu'l-Bahá as a Hand of the Cause of God and was identified as one of the nineteen Apostles of Baháʼu'lláh.

Baháʼu'lláh wrote a tablet addressed to Varqá, praising the high station of the King and Beloved of Martyrs.

## Execution

Varqá is well known as the father of Rúhu'lláh. The two of them were the first among a large group to be martyred in 1896 by Persian authorities for being Baháʼís. This story is summarized from Balyuzi's book.

The executioner, Hajibu'd Dawlih, was particularly enraged with his prisoners, and brought out Varqá and Rúhu'lláh into an inner room. Varqá's calm reply to questioning further maddened his captors. The executioner plunged a dagger into the chest of Varqá saying 'How are you?' to which Varqá replied 'Feeling better than you'. Hajibu'd Dawlih then asked him which should die first, him or his son Rúhu'lláh, to which Varqá replied 'It is the same to me.'

Hajibu'd Dawlih and four others then began to tear Varqá apart in front of his son. He made an offer to Rúhu'lláh that he could be adopted, offered an allowance, given a post in the government, but Rúhu'lláh asked to join his father instead. Hajibu'd Dawlih then strangled him with a bastinado. After his dead body fell to the ground, Rúhu'lláh's body raised and then fell to the ground again, a yard away. The experience scared Hajibu'd Dawlih so much that he ran away screaming.

## Family

The second son of Varqá, Valíyu'lláh Varqá, later was appointed a Hand of the Cause by Shoghi Effendi in 1951. When the latter died in 1955, the grandson of Varqá, ʻAlí-Muhammad Varqá was appointed in his place.

* Balyuzi, H.M. (1985). *Eminent Baháʼís in the time of Baháʼu'lláh*. The Camelot Press Ltd, Southampton. ISBN 0-85398-152-3.
* Harper, Barron (1997). *Lights of Fortitude* (Paperback ed.). Oxford, UK: George Ronald. ISBN 0-85398-413-1.


title: Vansittart Island

abstract: Vansittart Island, also known as Gun Carriage Island, is a granite island with an area of 800 hectares. The island is part of Tasmania's Vansittart Island Group, lying in eastern Bass Strait between Flinders and Cape Barren Islands in the Furneaux Group. It is partly private property and partly leasehold land and is currently used for grazing Wiltshire Horn sheep. The island is part of the Franklin Sound Islands Important Bird Area, identified as such by BirdLife International because it holds over 1% of the world populations of six bird species.

text:
# Vansittart Island

**Vansittart Island**, also known as **Gun Carriage Island**, is a granite island with an area of 800 hectares (2,000 acres). The island is part of Tasmania's Vansittart Island Group, lying in eastern Bass Strait between Flinders and Cape Barren Islands in the Furneaux Group.

It is partly private property and partly leasehold land and is currently used for grazing Wiltshire Horn sheep. The island is part of the Franklin Sound Islands Important Bird Area, identified as such by BirdLife International because it holds over 1% of the world populations of six bird species.

## History of colonial times

1. Former Bass Strait sealers were living on the island by the 1820s. In 1831 George Robinson came to evict the sealers and their families as he wanted to establish an Aboriginal settlement (see Section 5 below) on the island. When the Aboriginal establishment proved unsuccessful the sealers and their families returned to the island. Their community had grown to 28 people by the time Bishop Nixon came to visit in 1854.
2. In 1842 the island was formally charted by HMS *Beagle* and renamed from Gun Carriage Island to Vansittart Island. "Vansittart" is a significant maritime name within private and naval vessels, linked to the East India Company where Henry Vansittart was Governor of Bengal from 1759 to 1764.
3. In that year 1842 HMS *Beagle* returned to Van Diemens Land following a reverse circumference of Australia, via Timor and Swan River, Western Australia; Lt John Lort Stokes was affirmed as captain following the departure of then Cpt Wickham at Brisbane for reasons of sickness. *Beagle* was destined to join the Van Diemens Land government's cutter the *Vansittart* (seconded from the Van Diemens Land Government as tender to HMS *Beagle*) for the NE charting of Tasmania and the Bass Strait. Following which in the Bass Strait - Flinders Group of islands, "Gun Carriage Island" (named by sealers) was officially named "Vansittart Island".
4. Originally the vessel *Vansittart* was a private sloop with two cannon arriving from London and Cowes into Hobart Town, Van Diemens Land with eight souls aboard on 30 January 1836. Following arrival, within days *Vansittart* was sharing the harbour with HMS *Beagle* when Captain Robert Fitzroy and Charles Darwin with Lt Wickham berthed on 5 February 1836 on their reverse circumference of the globe, establishing the Theory of Evolution. This was the first of two considerably notable meetings between the two vessels. *Vansittart* traded between Hobart Town, Sydney, Kangaroo Island and Launceston prior to purchase by the colonial government of Van Diemens Land (renamed Tasmania 1856) on 22 February 1837 for "search and rescue".
5. *Vansittart* frequently visited Port Arthur and progressed to be a government revenue cutter and is purported to have transported the last Aboriginals from the main island of Van Diemens Land to the Flinders Group for a failed resettlement. *Vansittart* was lost at sea when sailing from Sydney to California as a private vessel under Master Gill 1849, the California Gold Rush had started in 1848.

## Flora and fauna

Most of the original vegetation of the island has been cleared by the use of fire and by bulldozers with chains, destroying many stands of Oyster Bay pine.

Recorded breeding seabird and wader species are little penguin, Pacific gull, sooty oystercatcher and pied oystercatcher. Black swans have nested on the island, which is also a refuge for Cape Barren geese. Reptiles present include tiger snake, copperhead snake, white-lipped grass snake, southern grass skink, metallic skink and Bougainville's skink. Echidnas are present, though the Tasmanian pademelon is extinct there.

40°16′S 148°18′E / 40.267°S 148.300°E / -40.267; 148.300


title: Vasquez Pass

abstract: Vasquez Pass, elevation 11,693 ft (3,564 m), is a mountain pass that crosses the Continental Divide in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado in the United States.

text:
# Vasquez Pass

**Vasquez Pass**, elevation 11,693 ft (3,564 m), is a mountain pass that crosses the Continental Divide in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado in the United States.

## InfoBox

| Vasquez Pass | |
| --- | --- |
| Vasquez PassLocation in Colorado | |
| Elevation | 11,693 ft (3,564 m) |
| Traversed by | trail |
| Location | Clear Creek / Grand counties, Colorado, U.S. |
| Range | Front Range |
| Coordinates | 39°47′16″N 105°49′45″W / 39.7877647°N 105.829176°W / 39.7877647; -105.829176 |
| Topo map | USGS Berthoud Pass |


title: Vaughn Walsh

abstract: Vaughn Anthony Walsh is a former Antiguan cricketer who played first-class and List A cricket from 1992 to 1997. Vaughn Walsh was considered one of the fastest bowlers in the West Indies in the early 1990s. While living in England in 1991, in a match for his club Leicester Nomads he took 9 for 2. He played three seasons for Leeward Islands from 1991-92 to 1993-94, with best first-class figures of 6 for 77 against Guyana in his second match. He played the 1995-96 and 1996-97 seasons for Griqualand West in South Africa, when his best figures were 6 for 52 in his first match.

text:
# Vaughn Walsh

**Vaughn Anthony Walsh** (born 2 December 1964) is a former Antiguan cricketer who played first-class and List A cricket from 1992 to 1997.

Vaughn Walsh was considered one of the fastest bowlers in the West Indies in the early 1990s. While living in England in 1991, in a match for his club Leicester Nomads he took 9 for 2. He played three seasons for Leeward Islands from 1991-92 to 1993-94, with best first-class figures of 6 for 77 against Guyana in his second match. He played the 1995-96 and 1996-97 seasons for Griqualand West in South Africa, when his best figures were 6 for 52 in his first match.

## InfoBox

Vaughn Walsh
| Personal information | |
| --- | --- |
| Full name | Vaughn Anthony Walsh |
| Born | (1964-12-02) 2 December 1964
Liberta, Antigua |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Batting | Right-handed |
| Bowling | Right-arm fast |
| Relations | Hayden Walsh Sr. (brother)
Hayden Walsh Jr. (nephew) |
| Domestic team information | |
| Years | Team |
| 1991-92 to 1993-94 | Leeward Islands |
| 1995-96 to 1996-97 | Griqualand West |
|  | |
| Career statistics | |
| Competition First-class List A  Matches 27 27  Runs scored 268 67  Batting average 11.65 8.37  100s/50s 0/1 0/0  Top score 51 18 not out  Balls bowled 5277 1278  Wickets 92 40  Bowling average 29.85 24.27  5 wickets in innings 2 0  10 wickets in match 0 n/a  Best bowling 6/52 4/37  Catches/stumpings 9/– 6/– | |
|  | |
| Source: Cricinfo, 6 November 2019 | |


title: Vauxhall glassworks

abstract: Vauxhall glassworks was a plate glass factory off what is now the Albert Embankment in the Vauxhall area of Lambeth, London, just to the north of Vauxhall Gardens. The site is now commemorated in the name of Glasshouse Walk. The Vauxhall site had a history of glassmaking dating back to 1612 when Sir Edward Zouche started a glass works there which was later taken over by Sir Robert Mansell, the Lord High Admiral, who in 1615 obtained a monopoly on the manufacture of glass in England. Soon after the 1660 Restoration of the Monarchy George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham acquired the works and established a factory there with the help of John Bellingham to make blown plate-glass, recruiting a team of Venetian glassmakers to help establish the process. Although unable to acquire the same monopoly rights as Mansell, whose had lapsed during the Protectorate, he nevertheless, by using his influence at court to secure a ban on the importation of much specialised glass, achieved a near total control over the supply of plate glass in England. The process involved blowing a glass cylinder, slitting it lengthwise, and allowing it to open to a flat sheet in an oven. It was then ground and polished to achieve a thin sheet with a flat surface. In later years the blowing process was superseded by the casting process. Most of his glass plate, up to 1 metre in size, was used for the manufacture of mirrors and coach windows and was eventually of better quality that could be imported. Around 1680 they were joined by George Ravenscroft, inventor of the more durable lead crystal glass, who worked there until his death in 1683. In 1678 Buckingham was accused of traitorous activity, locked up in the Tower of London and deprived of his patents. He handed the glassworks over to John Dawson, who had started there as an apprentice and worked his way up to become the manager. Dawson went into partnership with glassmaker John Bowles to operate the business and the new company, known as Dawson, Bowles & Company, was owned and run by the two families until it closed in the late 1780s.

text:
# Vauxhall glassworks

**Vauxhall glassworks** was a plate glass factory off what is now the Albert Embankment in the Vauxhall area of Lambeth, London, just to the north of Vauxhall Gardens. The site is now commemorated in the name of Glasshouse Walk.

The Vauxhall site had a history of glassmaking dating back to 1612 when Sir Edward Zouche started a glass works there which was later taken over by Sir Robert Mansell, the Lord High Admiral, who in 1615 obtained a monopoly on the manufacture of glass in England.

Soon after the 1660 Restoration of the Monarchy George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham acquired the works and established a factory there with the help of John Bellingham to make blown plate-glass, recruiting a team of Venetian glassmakers to help establish the process. Although unable to acquire the same monopoly rights as Mansell, whose had lapsed during the Protectorate, he nevertheless, by using his influence at court to secure a ban on the importation of much specialised glass, achieved a near total control over the supply of plate glass in England.

The process involved blowing a glass cylinder, slitting it lengthwise, and allowing it to open to a flat sheet in an oven. It was then ground and polished to achieve a thin sheet with a flat surface. In later years the blowing process was superseded by the casting process. Most of his glass plate, up to 1 metre in size, was used for the manufacture of mirrors and coach windows and was eventually of better quality that could be imported. Around 1680 they were joined by George Ravenscroft, inventor of the more durable lead crystal glass, who worked there until his death in 1683.

In 1678 Buckingham was accused of traitorous activity, locked up in the Tower of London and deprived of his patents. He handed the glassworks over to John Dawson, who had started there as an apprentice and worked his way up to become the manager. Dawson went into partnership with glassmaker John Bowles to operate the business and the new company, known as Dawson, Bowles & Company, was owned and run by the two families until it closed in the late 1780s.

51°29.36′N 0°07.33′W / 51.48933°N 0.12217°W / 51.48933; -0.12217


title: Vauxtin

abstract: Vauxtin is a commune in the Aisne department in Hauts-de-France in northern France.

text:
# Vauxtin

**Vauxtin** (French pronunciation: \[votɛ̃\]) is a commune in the Aisne department in Hauts-de-France in northern France.

## Population

Historical population
| Year | Pop. | ±% |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1962 | 41 |  |
| 1968 | 37 | −9.8% |
| 1975 | 45 | +21.6% |
| 1982 | 32 | −28.9% |
| 1990 | 36 | +12.5% |
| 1999 | 51 | +41.7% |
| 2008 | 50 | −2.0% |

## InfoBox

| Vauxtin | |
| --- | --- |
| Commune | |
| Location of Vauxtin | |
| VauxtinVauxtin | |
| Coordinates: 49°21′04″N 3°36′15″E / 49.3511°N 3.6042°E / 49.3511; 3.6042 | |
| Country | France |
| Region | Hauts-de-France |
| Department | Aisne |
| Arrondissement | Soissons |
| Canton | Fère-en-Tardenois |
| Intercommunality | Val de l'Aisne |
| Government | |
| Mayor (20202026) | Joanne Degouve |
| Area**1** | 2.27 km2 (0.88 sq mi) |
| Population (2021) | 40 |
| Density | 18/km2 (46/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) |
| Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) |
| INSEE/Postal code | 02773 /02220 |
| Elevation | 80–173 m (262–568 ft)
(avg. 145 m or 476 ft) |
| **1** French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers \> 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | |


title: Variable-buoyancy pressure vessel

abstract: A variable-buoyancy pressure vessel system is a type of rigid buoyancy control device for diving systems that retains a constant volume and varies its density by changing the weight (mass) of the contents, either by moving the ambient fluid into and out of a rigid pressure vessel, or by moving a stored liquid between internal and external variable-volume containers. A pressure vessel is used to withstand the hydrostatic pressure of the underwater environment. A variable-buoyancy pressure vessel can have an internal pressure greater or less than ambient pressure, and the pressure difference can vary from positive to negative within the operational depth range, or remain either positive or negative throughout the pressure range, depending on design choices. Variable buoyancy is a useful characteristic of any mobile underwater system that operates in mid-water without external support. Examples include submarines, submersibles, benthic landers, remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, and underwater divers. Several applications only need one cycle from positive to negative and back to get down to depth and return to the surface between deployments; others may need tens to hundreds of cycles over several months during a single deployment, or continual but very small adjustments in both directions to maintain a constant depth or neutral buoyancy at changing depths. Several mechanisms are available for this function; some are suitable for multiple cycles between positive and negative buoyancy, and others must be replenished between uses. Their suitability depends on the required characteristics for the specific application.

text:
# Variable-buoyancy pressure vessel

A **variable-buoyancy pressure vessel** system is a type of rigid buoyancy control device for diving systems that retains a constant volume and varies its density by changing the weight (mass) of the contents, either by moving the ambient fluid into and out of a rigid pressure vessel, or by moving a stored liquid between internal and external variable-volume containers. A pressure vessel is used to withstand the hydrostatic pressure of the underwater environment. A variable-buoyancy pressure vessel can have an internal pressure greater or less than ambient pressure, and the pressure difference can vary from positive to negative within the operational depth range, or remain either positive or negative throughout the pressure range, depending on design choices.

Variable buoyancy is a useful characteristic of any mobile underwater system that operates in mid-water without external support. Examples include submarines, submersibles, benthic landers, remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, and underwater divers.

Several applications only need one cycle from positive to negative and back to get down to depth and return to the surface between deployments; others may need tens to hundreds of cycles over several months during a single deployment, or continual but very small adjustments in both directions to maintain a constant depth or neutral buoyancy at changing depths. Several mechanisms are available for this function; some are suitable for multiple cycles between positive and negative buoyancy, and others must be replenished between uses. Their suitability depends on the required characteristics for the specific application.

## Uses of variable buoyancy in diving systems

Mobile underwater systems that operate in mid-water without external support need variable buoyancy, and as such these systems are a major research topic in the field of underwater vehicles. Examples include submarines, submersibles, benthic landers, remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, and ambient-pressure and single-atmosphere underwater divers.

A submarine can closely approach equilibrium when submerged but have no inherent stability in depth. The sealed pressure hull structure is usually slightly more compressible than water and will consequently lose buoyancy with increased depth. For precise and quick control of buoyancy and trim at depth, submarines use *depth control tanks* (*DCT*)—also called *hard tanks* (due to their ability to withstand higher pressure) or *trim tanks*. These are variable-buoyancy pressure vessels. The amount of water in depth control tanks can be controlled to change the buoyancy of the vessel so that it moves up or down in the water column, or to maintain a constant depth as outside conditions (mainly water density) change, and water can be pumped between trim tanks to control longitudinal or transverse trim without affecting buoyancy.

The operating depth of underwater vehicles can be controlled by controlling the buoyancy—by changing either the overall weight or the displaced volume—or by vectored thrust. Buoyancy can be controlled by changing the overall weight of the vehicle at constant volume, or by changing the displaced volume at a constant vehicle weight. The resulting buoyancy is used to control heave velocity and hovering depth, and in underwater gliders a positive or negative net buoyancy is used to drive forward motion.

The Avelo scuba system uses a variable-buoyancy pressure vessel, which is both the primary breathing gas cylinder and the scuba buoyancy compensator, with a rechargeable-battery–powered pump and dump valve unit which is demountable from the cylinder.

Variable-buoyancy systems have been considered for depth control of tethered ocean current turbine electrical generation.

The type of variable-buoyancy system best suited to an application depends on the precision of control required, the amount of change needed, and the number of cycles of buoyancy change necessary during a deployment.

## Types of variable-buoyancy systems

Several types of variable-buoyancy systems have been used, and are briefly described here. Some are based on a relatively incompressible pressure vessel and are nearly stable with variation of hydrostatic pressure.

* Weight-discharge variable-mass system. This is generally a system by which ballast of higher density than the surroundings is discharged, and once discharged the ballast is lost. The system is simple and appropriate for vehicles that only need to make a very limited number of buoyancy adjustments during a deployment. It is a common method of achieving positive buoyancy in an emergency as it is simple to arrange a fail-safe discharge mechanism. An analogous system for releasing fixed low-density material is also possible. These are also not pressure vessels as the weights or incompressible buoys are stored at ambient pressure.

* One-way tank-flood variable-mass system. This is simply an empty tank that can withstand external working pressure and can be partly or completely flooded by a control valve. The tank can be drained again at the surface for subsequent dives, but not while under pressure during a dive.

* Pumped-oil constant-mass, variable-volume system. This method uses more power but is indefinitely repeatable while power lasts, as it does not discharge any consumables. A positive-displacement pump transfers oil stored in a variable-volume container inside a gas-filled pressure vessel to an external variable-volume container, incompressibly increasing the displaced volume of the vehicle. Return transfer may be by pressure difference controlled by a valve, or also pumped.

* + Piston-driven oil-filled constant-mass, variable-volume system. This works very similarly to the pumped oil system, but the internal storage is in a cylinder with a piston which decreases or increases its volume using a mechanical drive, typically powered by an electric motor. In effect the piston acts as a pump.

* Pumped-water variable-buoyancy system. Ambient water is moved into and out of the pressure vessel to change the overall density of the vessel, and thereby of the vehicle of which it is a component. In one direction this transfer may be possible by pressure difference, but in at least one direction it must be pumped. The process is repeatable while power lasts, as the ballast is drawn from the surroundings.

### Mechanism

A buoyancy tank that is within the pressure hull of the vehicle, as in a submarine, will be exposed to the internal pressure of the vehicle, so external pressure loads on the tank may be relatively low. In this case the ballast water transfer into the tank may not require pumping, though a positive-displacement pump may still be useful to accurately control the volume of water admitted. Discharge of ballast water is against the external pressure, which will depend on depth, and will generally require significant work.

If the buoyancy tank is directly exposed to the ambient hydrostatic pressure, the external load due to depth can be high, but if the internal gas pressure is high enough, the pressure difference will be lower, and the pressure vessel is not subjected to high net external pressure loads which can cause buckling instability, which can allow a lower structural weight. In the extreme case the internal pressure is high enough to rapidly eject the water ballast at maximum operational depth, as in the case of the Avelo integrated diving cylinder and buoyancy control device. A pump is used to move ambient water into the pressure vessel against the internal pressure, compressing the gas further in proportion to volume decrease, so the entire internal volume is not available to hold ballast, as although the gas will decrease in volume, there will always be some gas volume remaining. The water and air in the pressure vessel may be separated by a membrane or free piston to prevent pumping out air in some orientations, and to prevent the air from dissolving in the ballast water under high pressure.


title: Veined catfish

abstract: The veined catfish, also known as the marine catfish, is a species of sea catfish in the family Ariidae. It was described by Achille Valenciennes in 1840. It inhabits tropical marine and brackish waters in the Indo-western Pacific region, including the Mozambique Channel, Myanmar, Indonesia and southern China. It dwells at a depth range of 20 to 50 m. It reaches a maximum total length of 30 cm (12 in), but more commonly reaches a TL of 19 cm (7.5 in). The diet of the veined catfish includes finfish and benthic crustaceans. It is of commercial interest to fisheries; it is generally marketed fresh.

text:
# Veined catfish

The **veined catfish** (*Arius venosus*), also known as the **marine catfish**, is a species of sea catfish in the family Ariidae. It was described by Achille Valenciennes in 1840. It inhabits tropical marine and brackish waters in the Indo-western Pacific region, including the Mozambique Channel, Myanmar, Indonesia and southern China. It dwells at a depth range of 20 to 50 m (66 to 164 ft). It reaches a maximum total length of 30 cm (12 in), but more commonly reaches a TL of 19 cm (7.5 in).

The diet of the veined catfish includes finfish and benthic crustaceans. It is of commercial interest to fisheries; it is generally marketed fresh.

## InfoBox

| Veined catfish | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Siluriformes |
| Family: | Ariidae |
| Genus: | *Arius* |
| Species: | ***A. venosus*** |
| Binomial name | |
| ***Arius venosus***<br>Valenciennes, 1840 | |
|
| Synonyms | |
| * *Tachysurus venosus* (Valenciennes, 1840) | |


title: Velda Newman

abstract: Velda Newman is a contemporary American quilter from Northern California, specializing in close-up depictions of the natural world. Common subjects for her quilts are flowers, fruit, and fish. Newman has received numerous national and international quilting awards, including her quilt "Hydrangea" being listed as one of "The 20th Century's 100 Best Quilts".

text:
# Velda Newman

**Velda Newman** is a contemporary American quilter from Northern California, specializing in close-up depictions of the natural world. Common subjects for her quilts are flowers, fruit, and fish.

Newman has received numerous national and international quilting awards, including her quilt "Hydrangea" being listed as one of "The 20th Century's 100 Best Quilts".

## Further reading

* Shaw, Robert (1997). *The Art Quilt*. Hugh Lauter Levin Associates. ISBN 9780883633250.
* Shaw, Robert (2014). *American Quilts: The Democratic Art*. Sterling. ISBN 978-1454913979.


title: Varigence

abstract: Varigence is a software firm headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, that specializes in the development of business intelligence tools. Varigence is the creator of Business Intelligence Markup Language (Biml).

text:
# Varigence

**Varigence** is a software firm headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, that specializes in the development of business intelligence tools. Varigence is the creator of Business Intelligence Markup Language (Biml).

## History

Varigence was founded in 2008 by former Microsoft employee Scott Currie.

In 2009, Varigence released Biml. In October 2011, Varigence held the $10,000 Biml Challenge at the annual PASS Summit in Seattle, Washington. A $10,000 grand prize was given to the person who could complete a business intelligence task the fastest using Biml

## InfoBox

Varigence
|
|  |
| Company type | Private |
| Industry | Computer software, Business intelligence tools |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Founder | Scott Currie |
| Headquarters | Greenville, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Area served | Global |
| Products | Biml, Mist, Vivid |
| Website | varigence.com/ |


title: Veli Ağbaba

abstract: Veli Ağbaba is a Turkish politician from the Republican People's Party (CHP), who has served as a Member of Parliament for Malatya since 12 June 2011.

text:
# Veli Ağbaba

**Veli Ağbaba** (born 3 April 1968) is a Turkish politician from the Republican People's Party (CHP), who has served as a Member of Parliament for Malatya since 12 June 2011.

## Early life and education

Veli Ağbaba was born in Yazıhan, Malatya Province, on 3 April 1968 as the son of Hüseyin and Elif Ağbaba. He completed his high school education in Malatya at Turan Emeksiz High School. He graduated from Anadolu University in 1989. In his youth, Ağbaba founded the Anadolu University Student Association. He is married with three children.

## Political career

Ağbaba joined Social Democratic Populist Party (SHP) in 1993 after his military service. He served as a Malatya Municipal Councillor between 1994 and 1999. In the local elections of 18 April 1999, Ağbaba was elected Republican People's Party (CHP) Provincial President.

### Member of Parliament

Ağbaba was elected as a CHP Member of Parliament for Malatya in the 2011 general election. He was re-elected in June 2015 and November 2015. He is a member of the Atatürkist Thought Association, a secular organization that espouses the ideas of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

A report that up to 400 workers had been killed during the construction of the new Istanbul Airport prompted Ağbaba to lodge a written questionnaire to the Turkish parliament on 13 February 2018.

## Books authored

* Balyoz Kumpası
* Kalemi Kırılan Gazeteciler

## InfoBox

| Veli AğbabaMP | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
|  | |
| Deputy leader of the Republican People's Party | |
| **Incumbent** | |
| **Assumed office**
8 May 2014 | |
| Leader | Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu |
| Member of the Grand National Assembly | |
| Constituency | Malatya (2011, June 2015, Nov 2015, 2018, 2023) |
|  | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | (1968-04-03) April 3, 1968
Yazıhan, Malatya |
| Nationality | Turkey |
| Political party | Republican People's Party |
| Occupation | Politician |
|  | |


title: Vas-Y Eddy

abstract: Vas-Y Eddy is a 1967 Belgian song by Jean Saint-Paul about Belgian cycling champion Eddy Merckx. Its lyrics were written by Betty Young and the B-side, Quand Paris Sourit by Claude Bonheur and Jean Saint-Paul. It was released by the label Philips Records. The song praises Eddy Merckx' victories and is notable for being the first recorded song about Merckx.

text:
# Vas-Y Eddy

**Vas-Y Eddy** (*C'mon Eddy*) is a 1967 Belgian song by Jean Saint-Paul about Belgian cycling champion Eddy Merckx. Its lyrics were written by Betty Young and the B-side, *Quand Paris Sourit* (*When Paris Smiles*) by Claude Bonheur and Jean Saint-Paul. It was released by the label Philips Records.

The song praises Eddy Merckx' victories and is notable for being the first recorded song about Merckx.

## Sources

## InfoBox

| "Vas-Y Eddy" | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
| Song by Jean Saint-Paul | |
| B-side | "Quand Paris Sourit" |
| Released | 1967 |
| Genre | Schlager |
| Label | Philips |
| Songwriter(s) | Betty Young, Jean Saint-Paul |


title: Velotrace

abstract: The Velotrace, first described in 1987, is a mechanical device that monitors and records analogue data on the position of the soft palate, or velum. The device comprises two levels connected through a "push rod" that carried on a "support rod", which itself rests on the floor of the nasal cavity. The internal lever rests on the nasal surface of the soft palate, and the external lever deflects toward the speaker when the internal level deflects upwards. Changes in position and motion are monitored and can be recorded with an optoelectronic camera and a tape recorder. The Velotrace can provide information about the pattern, timing, and coordination of movement of the soft palate during speech and swallowing.

text:
# Velotrace

The **Velotrace**, first described in 1987, is a mechanical device that monitors and records analogue data on the position of the soft palate, or velum. The device comprises two levels connected through a "push rod" that carried on a "support rod", which itself rests on the floor of the nasal cavity. The internal lever rests on the nasal surface of the soft palate, and the external lever deflects toward the speaker when the internal level deflects upwards. Changes in position and motion are monitored and can be recorded with an optoelectronic camera and a tape recorder.

The Velotrace can provide information about the pattern, timing, and coordination of movement of the soft palate during speech and swallowing.

1. Horiguchi S., Bell-Berti F. (1987.) "The Velotrace: a device for monitoring velar position", *Cleft Palate J*, 24(2):104-11.
2. Bell-Berti F., Krakow R. A., Ross D., Hroiguchi S. (1993.) "The rise and fall of the soft palate: the Velotrace", *J Acoust Soc Am*, 93(4):2416.
3. Baken R. J., Orlikoff R. F. (2000.) *Clinical Measurement of Speech and Voice*, Cengage Learning, p. 495.


title: Velour Live Music Gallery

abstract: Velour Live Music Gallery is a music venue, on University Avenue, in Provo, Utah. Velour is owned by Corey Fox. It acts as an all-ages music venue catering to an eclectic mix of genres. It is also a smoking and alcohol free environment. Neon Trees (Mercury) credit Velour as their home venue which helped launch their career. Other artists who similarly hold this same sentiment include major label artists Imagine Dragons (Interscope), Fictionist (Atlantic), Isaac Russell (Columbia), and notable folk singer Joshua James. Other Utah artists have hailed the work of Corey Fox and the value of Velour Live Music Gallery including internet sensation Lindsey Stirling, Truman Brothers and The Used (Hopeless). Imagine Dragons and Neon Trees are both past winners of the Velour Battle of the Bands. SPIN has also dubbed Velour Live Music Gallery one of the Best Kept Secrets in Utah. Similarly, the venue was listed on the "Best of Utah" in 2007. BYUtv indie music show AUDIO-FILES has had multiple episodes filmed at Velour including episodes featuring Imagine Dragons, Joshua James, Damien Jurado, and others. Artists, including Imagine Dragons, Neon Trees, Sara Bareilles, Matt Nathanson, Ryan Bingham & The Dead Horses, Local Natives, The National Parks, and many more have played this small taste-making venue.

text:
# Velour Live Music Gallery

**Velour Live Music Gallery** (often just **Velour**) is a music venue, on University Avenue, in Provo, Utah. Velour is owned by Corey Fox. It acts as an all-ages music venue catering to an eclectic mix of genres. It is also a smoking and alcohol free environment.

Neon Trees (Mercury) credit Velour as their home venue which helped launch their career. Other artists who similarly hold this same sentiment include major label artists Imagine Dragons (Interscope), Fictionist (Atlantic), Isaac Russell (Columbia), and notable folk singer Joshua James. Other Utah artists have hailed the work of Corey Fox and the value of Velour Live Music Gallery including internet sensation Lindsey Stirling, Truman Brothers and The Used (Hopeless). Imagine Dragons and Neon Trees are both past winners of the Velour Battle of the Bands.

SPIN has also dubbed Velour Live Music Gallery one of the Best Kept Secrets in Utah. Similarly, the venue was listed on the "Best of Utah" in 2007. BYUtv indie music show AUDIO-FILES has had multiple episodes filmed at Velour including episodes featuring Imagine Dragons, Joshua James, Damien Jurado, and others.

Artists, including Imagine Dragons, Neon Trees, Sara Bareilles, Matt Nathanson, Ryan Bingham & The Dead Horses, Local Natives, The National Parks, and many more have played this small taste-making venue.

## Awards

40°14′08″N 111°39′32″W / 40.23556°N 111.65889°W / 40.23556; -111.65889

## InfoBox

Velour Live Music Gallery
| Velour | |
| --- | --- |
| The front of the Velour Live Music Gallery | |
|  | |
| Location | 135 North University Ave, Provo, Utah 84601 |
| Type | Music gallery |
| Genre(s) | Rock, folk |
| Opened | January 13, 2006 |
| Website | |
| velourlive.com | |


title: Vassallaggi

abstract: Vassallaggi is a Sicilian prehistoric Bronze Age archaeological site, located on the hill of the same name, which had a later flourishing after the 7th century BC as a phrourion (fortress). The site is located in the middle of the Salso river valley, at 704 m above sea level, near San Cataldo in the province of Caltanissetta, in a strategic location for communication between the southern coast of Sicily and the northern part of the island. It has a NE-SW orientation and stretches along in parallel with the SS 122 San Cataldo-Serradifalco. This archaeological site developed over time on five small hills in close proximity to one another. It represents an important example of a Greek settlement in central Sicily, having apparently taken on increasing amounts of Greek cultural forms as a result of Greek people arriving from Rhodes and Crete, via Akragas. The site's position is critical for controlling the central Salso river valley. The site, known already in the 19th century, only became the subject of excavation from 1905. These excavations continued until the 1960s and produced brilliant results, including the discovery of considerable evidence for human habitation from the Bronze Age until the first centuries CE. Remains of walls, houses, streets, tombs and religious sites provide evidence of a prosperous community. Numerous items, some perfectly preserved, are now on display in various museums throughout Sicily.

text:
# Vassallaggi

37°28′14″N 13°56′51″E / 37.47056°N 13.94750°E / 37.47056; 13.94750

**Vassallaggi** is a Sicilian prehistoric Bronze Age archaeological site, located on the hill of the same name, which had a later flourishing after the 7th century BC as a phrourion (fortress). The site is located in the middle of the Salso river valley, at 704 m above sea level, near San Cataldo in the province of Caltanissetta, in a strategic location for communication between the southern coast of Sicily and the northern part of the island. It has a NE-SW orientation and stretches along in parallel with the SS 122 San Cataldo-Serradifalco.

This archaeological site developed over time on five small hills in close proximity to one another. It represents an important example of a Greek settlement in central Sicily, having apparently taken on increasing amounts of Greek cultural forms as a result of Greek people arriving from Rhodes and Crete, via Akragas. The site's position is critical for controlling the central Salso river valley.

The site, known already in the 19th century, only became the subject of excavation from 1905. These excavations continued until the 1960s and produced brilliant results, including the discovery of considerable evidence for human habitation from the Bronze Age until the first centuries CE. Remains of walls, houses, streets, tombs and religious sites provide evidence of a prosperous community. Numerous items, some perfectly preserved, are now on display in various museums throughout Sicily.

## History

The site first developed in the Bronze Age (18th-14th centuries BC), from which time some cave tombs of the Castelluccio culture survive and a circular hut with furniture, located on the hill looking towards San Cataldo. This original site was heavily altered by later periods of settlement.

The most ancient inhabitants of Vassallaggi, were presumably the Sicans of the early Bronze Age, whose presence is indicated by red-painted pottery with geometric motifs from the 2nd millennium tombs; kilns typical of that group were found nearby.

No finds have come to light from the middle and late Bronze Age, so these hills may have been abandoned at that time; this might be a result of emigration towards the coast from the middle Bronze Age and then as a result of the preference for more defensible sites in face of the arrival of the Sicels (which *might* have taken the form of an invasion). Thus the site was unoccupied for about 700 years, before a Sican settlement developed here in the 8th century BC.

This new habitation during the Iron Age continued until Greek occupation of the site in the 5th century, when the village seems to have been fortified and to have developed within the sphere of Akragas.

After the foundation of that city by Gela (most powerful of the Dorian colonies founded in the 7th century BC), a period of expansion of Greek origin people began which led to the colonisation of central Sicily, using the natural route along the Himera river valley (the modern Salso). The expansion into inland Sicily may be explained by the demographic pressure on the Greek communities of the motherland and the other Greek colonies. The need to augment agricultural production and open new markets for manufactured goods may also have been a causal factor.

The site of Vassallaggi, however, based on archaeological evidence, was only conquered and colonised by Greeks from Akragas in the 6th century BC, unlike nearby sites, like Sabucina, Capodarso and Gibil Gabib which were colonised by Gela, as shown by the proto-Corinthian style pottery found there, which is never found at Vassallaggi.

The most important discoveries in the rich necropolis, both in terms of quantity and quality of items recovered, derive from this period. They include ceramic sarcophagi, one of which is perfectly preserved, locally-made vases, pottery from other Greek areas, bronze knives, spears and strigils, as well as coins. A temple for the worship of a female deity was built at this time.

The absence of concrete evidence (e.g. inscriptions, money coined on site) makes it difficult to attribute any known ancient place name to the location. It has been suggested that the site is Motyon, the first fortified centre in the Acragantine area. The city was inexplicably abandoned around 320 BC. There are no traces of objects after this date.

From the Roman period, traces of small nucleated settlements are found in the valley and the surrounding territory, including especially important routes to Akragas. Christian tombs, dating to the 5th century AD have been found, near the prehistoric caves.

1. Francesco Lauricella, *Vassallaggi, Storia e archeologia di una città greca della Sicilia interna.* Tip. Ed. Vaccaro a cura del Comune di San Cataldo, 1990 p.5 & 9
2. Francesco Lauricella, *Vassallaggi, Storia e archeologia di una città greca della Sicilia interna.* Tip. Ed. Vaccaro a cura del Comune di San Cataldo, 1990 p. 29-31

## Bibliography

## InfoBox

Vassallaggi
| image of Vassallaggi from the air. | |
| --- | --- |
| Shown within Sicily | |
| Location | San Cataldo, province of Caltanissetta, Sicily, Italy |
| Coordinates | 37°28′14″N 13°56′51″E / 37.47056°N 13.94750°E / 37.47056; 13.94750 |
| Altitude | 704 m (2,310 ft) |
| History | |
| Periods | Bronze Age, Archaic-Roman Sicily |


title: Vatomandry

abstract: Vatomandry is a town in and the administrative center of the Vatomandry District, Atsinanana Region, Madagascar. An airport serves the city.

text:
# Vatomandry

**Vatomandry** is a town in and the administrative center of the Vatomandry District, Atsinanana Region, Madagascar. An airport serves the city.

## Etymology and location

Located on the coast, the town's name means 'Sleeping Rocks', derived from two black rocks near the shore. It is also on the path of the Canal des Pangalanes and National Road RN 11a

## History

In the pre-colonial era of the 19th century, Vatomandry was a center of Hova government with an active port.

Cyclone Manou caused great damage in 2003 to the town and left 68 people dead. Cyclone Giovanna in 2012 also caused significant damage.

## Religion

## Notable personalities

## InfoBox

| Vatomandry | |
| --- | --- |
| Beach of Vatomandry | |
| VatomandryLocation in Madagascar | |
| Coordinates: 19°19′51″S 48°58′41″E / 19.33083°S 48.97806°E / -19.33083; 48.97806 | |
| Country | Madagascar |
| Region | Atsinanana |
| District | Vatomandry District |
| Population (2019 census) | |
| Total | 15,836 |
| Ethnicities | Betsimisaraka |
| Time zone | UTC+3 (EAT) |
| postal code | 517 |


title: Mikołaj Ostroróg

abstract: Mikołaj Ostroróg (1593–1651) was a Polish–Lithuanian szlachcic (nobleman), politician and general. He was Podstoli of the Crown since 1633, Stolnik of the Crown since 1624, Krajczy of the Crown since 1636, Podczaszy of the Crown since 1638, Starost of Tykocin since 1645 and buski since 1646. He served as the Sejm Marshal in the 1633. Deputy to a number of Sejms, he supported the policies of the administration, and was well known for his erudition in Polish and Latin. In his military career, he reached the rank of regimentarz. He took part in the losing battle of Pyliavtsi in 1648 during the Khmelnytsky Uprising. Later, in 1649, he fought at the siege of Zbaraż. Marshal of the Sejm (koronacyjny) on 8 February – 17 March 1633 in Kraków.

text:
# Mikołaj Ostroróg

**Mikołaj Ostroróg** (1593–1651) was a Polish–Lithuanian szlachcic (nobleman), politician and general.

He was Podstoli of the Crown since 1633, Stolnik of the Crown since 1624, Krajczy of the Crown since 1636, Podczaszy of the Crown since 1638, Starost of Tykocin since 1645 and buski since 1646.

He served as the Sejm Marshal in the 1633. Deputy to a number of Sejms, he supported the policies of the administration, and was well known for his erudition in Polish and Latin.

In his military career, he reached the rank of regimentarz. He took part in the losing battle of Pyliavtsi in 1648 during the Khmelnytsky Uprising. Later, in 1649, he fought at the siege of Zbaraż.

Marshal of the Sejm (koronacyjny) on 8 February – 17 March 1633 in Kraków.

## InfoBox

| Mikołaj Ostroróg | |
| --- | --- |
|  | |
| Coat of arms | Nałęcz |
| Born | 1593 |
| Died | 1651 (aged 5758) |
| Noble family | Ostroróg |
| Father | Jan Ostroróg |
| Mother | Katarzyna Mielecka |


title: Poliki

abstract: Poliki is an Indian Village located in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, India.

text:
# Poliki

**Poliki** is an Indian Village located in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, India.

## Geography

Poliki is a village in Vidapanakal Mandal in Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh State, India. It belongs to Rayalaseema region.

## InfoBox

| Poliki | |
| --- | --- |
| Dynamic map | |
| PolikiLocation in Andhra Pradesh, India | |
| Coordinates: 15°00′24″N 77°11′01″E / 15.0067°N 77.1836°E / 15.0067; 77.1836 | |
| Country | India |
| State | Andhra Pradesh |
| Elevation | 456 m (1,496 ft) |
| Languages | |
| Official | Telugu |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | 515842 |


# Swimming at the 2006 Commonwealth Games – Men's 100 metre EAD freestyle

## Men's 100 m EAD Freestyle - Final

| Pos. | Lane | Athlete | R.T. | 50 m | 100 m | Tbh. |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
|  | 4 | Matthew John Cowdrey (AUS) | 0.71 | 27.44
27.44 | **56.73** (WR/AR/NR)
29.29 | 3.51 |
|  | 3 | Benoît Huot (CAN) | 0.81 | 25.53
25.53 | **53.22** (WR)
27.69 |  |
|  | 6 | David Roberts (WAL) | 1.06 | 29.93
29.93 | **1:01.85**
31.92 | 8.63 |
| 4 | 5 | Benjamin James Austin (AUS) | 0.74 | 28.80
28.80 | **1:00.50**
31.70 | 7.28 |
| 5 | 7 | Matthew Benedict Walker (ENG) | 0.90 | 30.35
30.35 | **1:03.71**
33.36 | 10.49 |
| 6 | 2 | Sam Julian Bramham (AUS) | 0.86 | 28.89
28.89 | **1:00.15**
31.26 | 6.93 |
| 7 | 1 | Daniel Robert Sharp (NZL) | 0.73 | 27.12
27.12 | **58.42**
31.30 | 5.20 |
| 8 | 8 | Donovan Tildesley (CAN) | 0.78 | 29.12
29.12 | **1:01.51**
32.39 | 8.29 |
|

## Men's 100 m EAD Freestyle - Heats

### Men's 100 m EAD Freestyle - Heat 01

| Pos. | Lane | Athlete | R.T. | 50 m | 100 m | Tbh. |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 5 | Sam Julian Bramham (AUS) | 0.86 | 28.84
28.84 | **1:00.17**
31.33 | 1.85 |
| 2 | 3 | Matthew Benedict Walker (ENG) | 0.95 | 30.07
30.07 | **1:05.33**
35.26 | 7.01 |
| 3 | 4 | Daniel Robert Sharp (NZL) | 0.89 | 27.50
27.50 | **58.32**
30.82 |  |
| 4 | 2 | Tirumalai Kumar Subbaiah (IND) | 1.01 | 37.76
37.76 | **1:22.49**
44.73 | 24.17 |
| 5 | 7 | Prem Kumar (IND) | 1.01 | 40.63
40.63 | **1:27.07**
46.44 | 28.75 |
| DSQ | 6 | Jaranding Stanley Anak (MAS) |  | 30.90
30.90 |
DSQ |  |
|

### Men's 100 m EAD Freestyle - Heat 02

| Pos. | Lane | Athlete | R.T. | 50 m | 100 m | Tbh. |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 3 | David Roberts (WAL) | 0.96 | 30.63
30.63 | **1:03.62**
32.99 | 4.04 |
| 2 | 5 | Donovan Tildesley (CAN) | 0.75 | 28.87
28.87 | **1:00.59**
31.72 | 1.01 |
| 3 | 4 | Brian Hill (CAN) | 0.85 | 28.09
28.09 | **59.58**
31.49 |  |
| 4 | 7 | Andreas Potamitis (CYP) | 0.85 | 37.54
37.54 | **1:19.82**
42.28 | 20.24 |
| 5 | 2 | Chen Hai Leow (SIN) | 0.94 | 33.82
33.82 | **1:11.80**
37.98 | 12.22 |
| 6 | 6 | Tambi Razak Binti (MAS) | 0.95 | 33.02
33.02 | **1:10.22**
37.20 | 10.64 |
|

### Men's 100 m EAD Freestyle - Heat 03

| Pos. | Lane | Athlete | R.T. | 50 m | 100 m | Tbh. |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 5 | Matthew John Cowdrey (AUS) | 0.74 | 27.73
27.73 | **57.97**
30.24 | 3.55 |
| 2 | 3 | Benjamin James Austin (AUS) | 0.75 | 28.75
28.75 | **1:00.21**
31.46 | 5.79 |
| 3 | 4 | Benoît Huot (CAN) | 0.87 | 26.86
26.86 | **54.42**
27.56 |  |
| 4 | 1 | Jonathan Cummings (NIR) | 0.00 | 37.56
37.56 | **1:18.99**
41.43 | 24.57 |
| 5 | 2 | Keng Joo Lim (SIN) | 0.86 | 33.51
33.51 | **1:11.39**
37.88 | 16.97 |
| 6 | 6 | Dawan Fraidden (MAS) | 0.95 | 32.12
32.12 | **1:08.59**
36.47 | 14.17 |
| 7 | 7 | Teck Hua Lieu (SIN) | 0.76 | 36.21
36.21 | **1:17.03**
40.82 | 22.61 |
|


title: Saltaro of Torres

abstract: Saltaro was a Sardinian nobleman during the Middle Ages, the son of Constantine I of Logudoro. His mother is unknown but may have been named Marcusa. Whether or not he is the same person as "Saltaro de Gunale", a pretender to the throne of Logudoro in 1127 during the reign of Gonario II, is also uncertain. While still a young man, Saltaro took part in the Pisan expedition against the Moors of the Balearic Islands in 1114–1115. He was renowned for his handling of the ships and his participation brought honour to his father.

text:
# Saltaro of Torres

**Saltaro** was a Sardinian nobleman during the Middle Ages, the son of Constantine I of Logudoro. His mother is unknown but may have been named Marcusa. Whether or not he is the same person as "Saltaro de Gunale", a pretender to the throne of Logudoro in 1127 during the reign of Gonario II, is also uncertain.

While still a young man, Saltaro took part in the Pisan expedition against the Moors of the Balearic Islands in 11141115. He was renowned for his handling of the ships and his participation brought honour to his father.

## Sources


title: Tony Elumelu

abstract: Anthony Onyemaechi Elumelu is a Nigerian economist, banker and philanthropist. He chairs Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and is the founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation. In 2020, Elumelu was named on Time's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

text:
# Tony Elumelu

**Anthony Onyemaechi Elumelu** CFR (born 22 March 1963) is a Nigerian economist, banker and philanthropist. He chairs Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and is the founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

In 2020, Elumelu was named on *Time*'s list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

## Early life

### Childhood and family

Elumelu was born in Jos, Plateau, Nigeria, on 22 March 1963, to Suzanne and Dominic Elumelu, originally from Onicha-Ukwu in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State. He grew up with four siblings, one of whom is Ndudi Elumelu, a minority leader in the Nigerian legislature.

### Education

Elumelu studied Economics at Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University), obtaining a Bachelor of Science with a Lower Second Class (2:2). Afterward, obtained a Master of Science degree in Economics from the University of Lagos.

## Career

### Early career

Elumelu worked in the Nigerian Bank Union Bank as a corps member during his National Youth Service Corps in 1985, before starting his career as a salesman. Elumelu subsequently joined Allstates Trust Bank in 2005 and United Bank for Africa (UBA) was acquired afterwards.

On his early career, he has said:

> I started my career as a salesman, a copier salesman to be specific, young, hungry, and hardworking, but the reality was that I was just one of the thousands of young Nigerian graduates, all eager to succeed.

In 1997, Elumelu led a small group of investors to take over a struggling Crystal Bank (later renamed Standard Trust Bank). He turned it profitable within a few years and in 2005, he led one of the largest mergers in the banking sector in Sub-Saharan Africa by acquiring United Bank for Africa (UBA).

### United Bank for Africa

Following the merger of Standard Trust Bank and United Bank for Africa in 2005, Elumelu led the company as Group Managing Director from a single-country banking group to a pan-African bank with subsidiaries in 20 African countries, France, the U.S and the U.K, eventually stepping down in 2010.

Elumelu currently chairs the board of the United Bank for Africa.

### Heirs Holdings

In 2010, he founded Heirs Holdings, his family-owned investment holding company. Elumelu also established in the same year the Tony Elumelu Foundation, an Africa-based foundation championing entrepreneurship in Africa. Heirs Holdings maintains a portfolio of investments across several sectors. Through Heirs Holdings, Elumelu holds a controlling interest in Transnational Corporation, a diversified conglomerate with business interests in Power, Hospitality and Energy.

### Transcorp Plc

On 14 April 2021, Elumelu was officially handed the Certificate of Discharge of the iconic hospitality facility. The National Council on Privatization (NCP), which is chaired by the former Vice President of Nigeria Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, handed over full ownership of Transcorp Hotels to the Chairman after fulfilling all privatization conditions attached to the sale of the property in 2005.

### The Tony Elumelu Foundation

Following his retirement from United Bank for Africa in 2010, Elumelu founded The Tony Elumelu Foundation. The Tony Elumelu Foundation promotes entrepreneurship in Africa. The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s belief that the private sector’s role is critical for Africa’s development is hinged on the economic philosophy of Africapitalism, which was introduced by Elumelu; "that the African private sector has the power to transform the continent through long-term investments, creating both economic prosperity and social wealth."

In 2015, Elumelu committed $100 million to create 10,000 entrepreneurs across Africa over the next 10 years through the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme - a Pan-African entrepreneurship initiative designed to empower African entrepreneurs through a multi-year programme of training, funding, and mentoring.

## Awards and honours

Elumelu has received recognition and praise for his contributions to business and entrepreneurship.

* In 2003, the Federal Government of Nigeria granted Elumelu the title of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic MFR, a national honour.
* In 2012, he was awarded the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger CON for his service in promoting private enterprise.
* He was awarded the *Daily Times*, Nigerian man of the year in 2016.
* In 2018 and 2019 he was awarded the All-Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA) Philanthropist of the Year Award
* Bayero University Kano (BUK) - Honorary Doctor of Business degree in 2019
* He was honored with the National Productivity Order of Merit Award in 2019.
* *TIME magazine'*s 100 Most Influential People of 2020.
* On 11 October 2022, Elumelu received the National honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic.

## InfoBox

| Tony ElumeluCFR | |
| --- | --- |
| Elumelu in 2020 | |
| Born | Anthony Onyemaechi Elumelu
(1963-03-22) 22 March 1963
Jos, Northern Region, Nigeria (now in Plateau State, Nigeria) |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Alma mater | Ambrose Alli University,
University of Lagos |
| Occupation(s) | Founder, The Tony Elumelu Foundation |
| Years active | 1987–present |
| Known for | Founding The Tony Elumelu Foundation |
| Spouse | * Awele Vivian Elumelu |


title: Winston Place

abstract: Winston Place was an English cricketer who played in three Tests in 1948. An opening batsman for Lancashire, he shared a prolific partnership with Cyril Washbrook and was part of the county championship winning side of 1950. Place played first-class cricket until 1955, when his contract was not renewed. He became an umpire for one season, but retired to spend more time with his family.

text:
# Winston Place

**Winston Place** (7 December 1914 − 25 January 2002) was an English cricketer who played in three Tests in 1948. An opening batsman for Lancashire, he shared a prolific partnership with Cyril Washbrook and was part of the county championship winning side of 1950. Place played first-class cricket until 1955, when his contract was not renewed. He became an umpire for one season, but retired to spend more time with his family.

## Youth and early career

Winston Place was born in Rawtenstall; he was orphaned at the age of 5 and was raised by his aunt. He represented Rawtenstall's cricket team in the Lancashire League. At the age of 15, Place began opening the batting for his club side. The club's professional player, Sydney Barnes, recommended Place to Lancashire County Cricket Club. Place served an apprenticeship as an engineer before serving an apprenticeship at Lancashire in 1936.

The Lancashire batting line up of the time was a strong one, and Place had limited opportunities to break into the first team. He managed to make his debut in 1937, scoring his maiden century in his first season against Nottinghamshire. He finished with 563 runs from 14 matches at an average of 29.63. He enjoyed playing for Lancashire; on the last day of his first season, when asked by other cricketers in the Lancashire team how he would be spending his holiday, he replied "this is the last day of my holiday". Between 1937 and 1939, Place was unable to secure a permanent place in Lancashire's team and in three seasons he managed 1,277 runs in 33 matches at an average of 29.02 with two centuries. In 1939, when opening with Cyril Washbrook as a replacement for the injured Eddie Paynter, Place scored 164 against the touring West Indies team. In 1939, Place was awarded his cap by Lancashire.

The outbreak of the Second World War prevented Place from playing first-class cricket until 1946, he was able to play charity matches and represented Horwich in the Bolton Cricket League. During the war, worked as an engineer in Accrington. He was married in 1940.

## Post-war career

After the war, Place, who was 31 at the time, was the first choice batsman to open with Cyril Washbrook. The partnership was one of the most prolific for Lancashire and the best on the county circuit at the time. The 1946 and 1947 English cricket seasons were Place's most successful, producing 1,868 runs at 41.51 and 2,501 at 62.52 respectively. These were his most productive seasons and in 1947 he scored 10 centuries including his career best 266 not out which was scored against Oxford University; his second-highest total centuries for a season is four. He was 12th man for England against South Africa when they played a Test match at Headingley. Place's "golden summer" earned him selection for England's tour of the West Indies when Denis Compton, Bill Edrich, Len Hutton, and fellow Lancastrian Cyril Washbrook opted out of the tour.

He made his debut on 21 January 1948 against the West Indies at Bridgetown. Place opened the batting with Jack Robertson, but was unsuccessful, scoring 12 in the first innings and 1 not out in the second when he dropped down the batting order to number six. Place sustained a bruised knuckle in the Test and missed the second Test due to a ruptured groin muscle that happened during a tour match against Trinidad. He was able to return for the final two matches of the series. Due to injuries to the team, Len Hutton had been called up, forcing Place to move from his accustomed place opening the batting to number three. In the third Test, he scored 1 and 15. Place's most significant Test innings came in his final match. After scoring 8 in the first innings, Place scored a battling 107, his only Test century.

On his return to England, Place drifted out of England contention, and did not even feature in the Test trial as England prepared for Australia's tour in 1948. Despite being overlooked by the national selectors, he remained an integral part of Lancashire's batting line up, scoring 1,000 every season between 1946 and 1953. In 1949, Place suffered a broken hand, keeping him from playing seven matches, although he did manage a county championship best of 226 not out against Nottinghamshire. He toured with the Commonwealth XI which toured India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in 1949/50, scoring 386 runs at 20.31 in 12 matches.

## Decline and after cricket

Place's benefit year was in 1952 and raised £6,297; at the time this figure was only bettered by the benefits of Washbrook and Dick Pollard, and demonstrated his popularity with the Lancashire fans. The last time Place passed 1,000 runs in a season was in 1953. In 1954 he averaged a disappointing 21.64 with only one century, but the 1955 season was leaner still, amassing only 179 runs from 10 matches. At the age of 40, Place was released by Lancashire, and on being told his career with Lancashire was over he broke down in tears.

He became a first-class umpire, and although he enjoyed the job he disliked being separated from his family and quit after one season. Of Place's umpiring, Peter Tinniswood said "I am reminded here of that great and saintly Lancashire cricketer, Mr Winston Place, who on retiring from the first-class game took up umpiring. He resigned from his position, however, because such was his goodness and benevolence, he could not bear to give people out. God is rather like Winston Place". On retiring, he became a newsagent in his home town of Rawtenstall, even playing for the town's cricket team, living with his wife and two daughters. He died on 25 January 2002.

## InfoBox

Winston Place
|  | |
| --- | --- |
| Personal information | |
| Full name | Winston Place |
| Born | (1914-12-07)7 December 1914
Rawtenstall, Lancashire, England |
| Died | 25 January 2002(2002-01-25) (aged 87)
Burnley, Lancashire, England |
| Batting | Right-handed |
| Bowling | Right-arm slow |
| Role | Opening Batsman |
| International information | |
| National side |  |
| Test debut (cap 329) | 21 January 1948 v West Indies |
| Last Test | 1 April 1948 v West Indies |
|  | |
| Domestic team information | |
| Years | Team |
| 1937–1955 | Lancashire |
| 1947/48 | Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) |
|  | |
| Career statistics | |
| Competition Test FC  Matches 3 324  Runs scored 144 15,609  Batting average 28.80 35.62  100s/50s 1/0 36/71  Top score 107 266\*  Balls bowled 0 60  Wickets 0 1  Bowling average  42.00  5 wickets in innings  0  10 wickets in match  0  Best bowling  1/2  Catches/stumpings 0/– 191/– | |
|  | |
| Source: CricketArchive, 17 December 2008 | |


title: Vehicle Efficiency Initiative

abstract: The Vehicle Efficiency Incentive (VEI) was introduced in the 2007 Canadian federal government budget, aimed at promoting fuel-efficient vehicles. The VEI took effect on March 20, 2007, and it included a performance-based rebate program offering up to $2,000 for the purchase of a new fuel-efficient vehicle, a neutral treatment of a broad range of vehicles with average fuel efficiency that were widely purchased by Canadians, and a new Green Levy on fuel-inefficient vehicles. The rebate program, eventually called ecoAUTO Rebate Program, initially offered $1,000 for new automobiles with a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.5 L/100 km or better and minivans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) & other light trucks with fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km or better, calculated based on a combined 55 per cent city and 45 per cent highway rating. An additional $500 was offered for each half litre per 100 km improvement in the combined fuel-efficiency rating of the vehicle below these thresholds, for a maximum total of $2,000. The ecoAUTO rebate program applied to 2006, 2007 and 2008 model-year vehicles purchased or leased between March 20, 2007 and December 31, 2008. All applications must have been received by March 31, 2009. A Green Levy was charged for new passenger vehicles with fuel-efficiency ratings of 13.0 L/100 km or worse. The incentive structure will include a new Green Levy on these types of vehicles, payable by the manufacturer or importer when the vehicles are delivered into the Canadian market. The fuel-efficiency rating is calculated based on the same criteria as the rebate program above. The Green Levy will start at $1,000 for passenger vehicles with combined fuel-efficiency ratings of at between 13.0 L/100 km and 14.0 L/100 km, and increase in $1,000 increments for each full litre per 100 km increase in the combined fuel-efficiency rating above the 13.0 L/100 km floor, to a maximum of $4,000, for vehicles with ratings of 16.0 L/100 km or worse. In addition to the incentives and levies, the Canadian Federal Budget of 2007 provided $6 million over the next two years for a seven-fold increase in annual federal support delivered through Environment Canada for scrappage programs, and it provided for $30 million over the next two years for incentives to be designed by Environment Canada and Transport Canada in consultation with stakeholders that will remove older, high-emitting vehicles from Canadian roads.

text:
# Vehicle Efficiency Initiative

The **Vehicle Efficiency Incentive** (VEI) was introduced in the 2007 Canadian federal government budget, aimed at promoting fuel-efficient vehicles. The VEI took effect on March 20, 2007, and it included a performance-based rebate program offering up to $2,000 for the purchase of a new fuel-efficient vehicle, a neutral treatment of a broad range of vehicles with average fuel efficiency that were widely purchased by Canadians, and a new Green Levy on fuel-inefficient vehicles.

The rebate program, eventually called ecoAUTO Rebate Program, initially offered $1,000 for new automobiles with a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.5 L/100 km (43.5 mpg) or better and minivans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) & other light trucks with fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km (34 mpg) or better, calculated based on a combined 55 per cent city and 45 per cent highway rating. An additional $500 was offered for each half litre per 100 km improvement in the combined fuel-efficiency rating of the vehicle below these thresholds, for a maximum total of $2,000. The ecoAUTO rebate program applied to 2006, 2007 and 2008 model-year vehicles purchased or leased (12 months or more) between March 20, 2007 and December 31, 2008. All applications must have been received by March 31, 2009.

A Green Levy was charged for new passenger vehicles (excluding trucks) with fuel-efficiency ratings of 13.0 L/100 km (21.7 mpg) or worse. The incentive structure will include a new Green Levy on these types of vehicles, payable by the manufacturer or importer when the vehicles are delivered into the Canadian market. The fuel-efficiency rating is calculated based on the same criteria as the rebate program above. The Green Levy will start at $1,000 for passenger vehicles with combined fuel-efficiency ratings of at between 13.0 L/100 km and 14.0 L/100 km (20.2 mpg), and increase in $1,000 increments for each full litre per 100 km increase in the combined fuel-efficiency rating above the 13.0 L/100 km floor, to a maximum of $4,000, for vehicles with ratings of 16.0 L/100 km (17.7 mpg) or worse.

In addition to the incentives and levies, the Canadian Federal Budget of 2007 provided $6 million over the next two years for a seven-fold increase in annual federal support delivered through Environment Canada for scrappage programs, and it provided for $30 million over the next two years for incentives to be designed by Environment Canada and Transport Canada in consultation with stakeholders that will remove older, high-emitting vehicles from Canadian roads.

## Criticisms

According to auto industry analyst Dennis DesRosiers, large SUV buyers reacted to the VEI by buying pickups, which are exempted from the extra tax.

A study by the conservative C.D. Howe Institute questioned the effectiveness of the program. Specifically, their study claimed that the program did not affect the majority of vehicles, that the Canadian government failed to adequately consult the industry and did not phase in the policy, which hurt the market share of the Big Three North American automakers, and that the program was ineffective in reducing greenhouse gases.

## Financial costs

For the ecoAUTO program, the Canadian Federal government allocated $160 million over 2 fiscal years beginning in 2007. The government spent $116 million in 2007-2008, and allocated $102.7 million for fiscal year 2008-2009.

1. The Star.com
2. "Federal auto 'feebate' program is flawed, study says". Archived from the original on 2007-11-23. Retrieved 2007-11-23.
3. The 2007 Budget: Incentives for car drivers
4. Supplementary Estimates (A), 2007-2008 For the Fiscal year ending March 31, 2008, page 11
5. 2008-09 Estimates Parts I and II The Government Expense Plan and The Main Estimates, page 1-20


title: Military Information Services (Poland)

abstract: Military Information Services was a common name for the Polish military intelligence and counter-intelligence agency. The agency was created in 1990 after the Revolutions of 1989 ended the Communist regime as a merger between the former Communist agencies Internal Military Service and the Second Directorate of General Staff of the Polish Army. The combined agency was originally known as the Second Directorate for Intelligence and Counter-intelligence; it was renamed to WSI in 1991. At first, all commanding and upper-level officers—and most of the employees—had direct personal and career links with the former Communist regimes of Poland and the Soviet Union. By a vote of 375 - 48 in favor, the Sejm of the Republic of Poland voted in May 2006 to liquidate WSI in October 2006. Polish President Bronisław Komorowski voted against.

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# Military Information Services (Poland)

**Military Information Services** (*Wojskowe Służby Informacyjne*, or WSI) was a common name for the Polish military intelligence and counter-intelligence agency. The agency was created in 1990 after the Revolutions of 1989 ended the Communist regime as a merger between the former Communist agencies Internal Military Service (*Wojskowa Służba Wewnętrzna*, or WSW) and the Second Directorate of General Staff of the Polish Army. The combined agency was originally known as the Second Directorate for Intelligence and Counter-intelligence (*Zarząd II Wywiadu i Kontrwywiadu*); it was renamed to WSI in 1991. At first, all commanding and upper-level officers—and most of the employees—had direct personal and career links with the former Communist regimes of Poland and the Soviet Union.

By a vote of 375 - 48 in favor, the Sejm of the Republic of Poland voted in May 2006 to liquidate WSI in October 2006. Polish President Bronisław Komorowski (at that time as deputy) voted against.

## History

In 1990, the Second Directorate of General Staff of the Polish Army was joined with military counter-intelligence to form the WSW. That merger combined the intelligence and counter-intelligence agencies under one structure, the Second Directorate for Intelligence and Counter-intelligence. In 1991, the Second Directorate was transformed into the WSI. WSI was responsible for military counter-intelligence and security activities in Poland.

WSI was bound by law to shield vital state information for the newly independent Poland, under the direct control and management of the Ministry of Defense (*Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej*). WSI was also intended to be Poland's liaison with the intelligence services of other NATO countries.

WSI was to investigate and counteract threats to Poland's defense forces and vital defense information. It also regulated arms, explosives, equipment, licenses, etc.

### Disbandment

In 2006, WSI was disbanded and replaced by two independent military intelligence services, the Military Counter-intelligence Service (*Służba Kontrwywiadu Wojskowego*) and the Military Intelligence Service (*Służba Wywiadu Wojskowego*). Prime Minister Jarosław Kaczyński appointed conservative politician Antoni Macierewicz to oversee the disbanding of WSI.

The work of the Verification Commission allowed to reveal the picture of the actual structure of military intelligence services: out of nearly 10,000 operating in 1990 at home and abroad, 2,500 employees of these services are people planted in the central administrative and economic institutions of the country.

According to military experts of the Polish Democratic Left Alliance and Civic Platform, some NATO officials expressed disapproval of disbanding of the WSI.

The Sejm allowed President Lech Kaczyński's administration to publish the Macierewicz Report, a 164-page document detailing the extralegal activities of the WSI that lead to its disbandment. The report documents alleged misconduct by WSI soldiers and employees. Although the first phase of the disbandment was perceived by most of Polish politicians as successful; the new "verification" phase was incomplete. Polish media discuss the ongoing "professionalization" reforms in the Polish army, which, according to politicians, needs radical changes. Nonetheless, there are many public voices of opposition alleging problems in those reforms in spite of verification of WSI.

Lack of professionals in the new forces replacing the WSI, coupled with their bad performance in 2010s (see for instance the 2010 Polish Air Force Tu-154 crash) improved the public opinions expressed (for instance by the then Polish President Bronisław Komorowski) about the disbanded WSI.

1. (Polish) Głosowanie nad przyjęciem w całości projektu ustawy o Służbie Kontrwywiadu Wojskowego oraz Służbie Wywiadu Wojskowego, w brzmieniu proponowanym przez Komisję Nadzwyczajną May 24, 2006
2. (Polish) Jerzy Szmajdziński: w likwidacji WSI chodzi o przeszłość, February 23, 2006
3. (Polish) Miodowicz: Sojusznicy NATO są zaniepokojeni April 13, 2007
4. (Polish) Sejm decided about liquidation of WSI
5. Professional skills needed for recruitment were lowered in 2009/2010 in comparison with earlier periods, source: gazeta.pl (Polish)
6. (Polish) Komorowski: I'm going to withdraw the next Lech Kaczyński's motions.

## InfoBox

Military Information Services
| Wojskowe Służby Informacyjne | |
| --- | --- |
| Emblem of the Military Information Services | |
| Agency overview | |
| Formed | 1991 (1991) |
| Preceding agencies | * Second Directorate for Intelligence and Counter-intelligence * Second Directorate of General Staff of the Polish Army * Internal Military Service |
| Dissolved | October 2006 (2006-10) |
| Superseding agency | * Military Intelligence Service<br>Military Counter-intelligence Service |
| Type | Intelligence |
| Jurisdiction | Polish Armed Forces |
| Parent department | Ministry of Defense |


title: Tommy Charlton

abstract:
Thomas Charlton was an English professional association footballer who played as a winger. He began his career with Darlington, but spent the majority of his career with Stockport County, making 93 league appearances and scoring 26 goals in four years.
[1911 census shows Thomas Charlton, aged 24 as a Professional Footballer with Stockport County F.C. Census gives his birthplace as Hexham, Durham and his address in 1911 as 10 Bakewell Street, Stockport where he was a boarder with his wife Violet and his son, also called Thomas. After a short spell with Burnley in 1913, Charlton joined the Clarets' Lancashire neighbours Blackpool later that year. He made his debut for the Seasiders, who still hadn't appointed a full-time manager, on 22 December, in a 2–2 draw with Leeds City at Bloomfield Road. He went on to make a further twenty-two league appearances during the 1913–14 campaign, scoring three goals in the process. He also started in Blackpool's FA Cup first-round exit at Gillingham on 10 January.

text:
# Tommy Charlton

**Thomas Charlton** was an English professional association footballer who played as a winger.

He began his career with Darlington, but spent the majority of his career with Stockport County, making 93 league appearances and scoring 26 goals in four years. \[1911 census shows Thomas Charlton, aged 24 as a Professional Footballer with Stockport County F.C. Census gives his birthplace as Hexham, Durham and his address in 1911 as 10 Bakewell Street, Stockport where he was a boarder with his wife Violet and his son, also called Thomas.

After a short spell with Burnley in 1913, Charlton joined *the Clarets*' Lancashire neighbours Blackpool later that year. He made his debut for *the Seasiders*, who still hadn't appointed a full-time manager, on 22 December, in a 2–2 draw with Leeds City at Bloomfield Road. He went on to make a further twenty-two league appearances during the 1913–14 campaign, scoring three goals in the process (including the only goal of the game in Blackpool's visit to Leicester Fosse on Christmas Day). He also started in Blackpool's FA Cup first-round exit at Gillingham on 10 January.

* Joyce, Michael (2004). *Football League Players' Records 1888-1939*.
* Calley, Roy (1992). *Blackpool: A Complete Record 1887-1992*.

## InfoBox

Tommy Charlton
| Personal information | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Full name | Thomas Charlton | | |
| Place of birth | Middlesbrough, England | | |
| Position(s) | Winger | | |
| Senior career\* | | | |
| Years | **Team** | **Apps** | **(Gls)** |
| 1908-1909 | Darlington |  |  |
| 1909–1913 | Stockport County | 93 | (26) |
| 1913 | Burnley | 7 | (3) |
| 1913–1914 | Blackpool | 22 | (3) |
| \*Club domestic league appearances and goals | | | |


title: Tom Kipp

abstract: Tom Kipp from Chardon, Ohio is an American former motorcycle racer. A Superbike World Championship race winner, Kipp won the AMA 600 SuperSport Championship in 1992 and the AMA 750 SuperSport Championship in 1994, 1995 and 1999; Kipp, who started motocross racing before he was six years old, also competed in the AMA Superbike Championship, the British Superbike Championship and the AMA Formula Xtreme Championship. He retired in late 2003 to study for Christian ministry, returning to competition for 2005 in the Canadian Superbike Championship. He later became a pastor.

text:
# Tom Kipp

**Tom Kipp** (born November 17, 1968) from Chardon, Ohio is an American former motorcycle racer. A Superbike World Championship race winner, Kipp won the AMA 600 SuperSport Championship in 1992 and the AMA 750 SuperSport Championship in 1994, 1995 and 1999; Kipp, who started motocross racing before he was six years old, also competed in the AMA Superbike Championship, the British Superbike Championship and the AMA Formula Xtreme Championship. He retired in late 2003 to study for Christian ministry, returning to competition for 2005 in the Canadian Superbike Championship. He later became a pastor.

## InfoBox

| Tom Kipp | |
| --- | --- |
| Nationality | American |
| Born | (1968-11-17) November 17, 1968<br>Willoughby, Ohio, United States |
| Motorcycle racing career statistics  Superbike World Championship  Active years 19891991, 1995, 1997  Manufacturers Yamaha   Starts Wins Podiums Poles F. laps Points  20 1 1 1 0 48 | |