Split (1)

train · 697k rows

pred_label stringclasses 2 values	pred_label_prob float64 0.5 1	wiki_prob float64 0.25 1	text stringlengths 163 1.01M	source stringlengths 37 43
__label__wiki	0.612521	0.612521	After Planned Parenthood Was Defunded In Texas The Obvious Happened, Study Confirms Who would have thought. Pixabay. In Texas, up until 2011, there had been impressive progress in tackling teenage pregnancy. The teen pregnancy rate fell by an impressive 44 percent between 1988 and 2011. According to the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, Texas was still the sixth highest state for number of teen pregnancies, with 65 pregnancies occurring per 1,000 girls in 2011. But progress was definitely being made. Unfortunately, a new study has now suggested that due to the Texas family planning budget being slashed by 67 percent since 2011, as a direct result, there has been a big spike in teen pregnancies that have resulted in teen births since then. In the four years following 2011, teen birth rates increased by 34 percent, reversing the excellent progress that had been made pre-cuts. This graph from the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy shows the teen birth rate per 1,000 teens in 2015. Figures taken from the Center for Disease Control. The study, by Analisa Packham of Miami University, reveals that the cuts have resulted in over 80 clinic closures. As a result, Packham claims, around 2,200 teens have given birth that wouldn't have if the cuts hadn't taken place. Before 2011, when Texas' teen birth rate was at a record low, its budget for family planning was $111 million for two years running. This shrunk to $37.9 million for the next two years. These cuts appear to have had a detrimental impact, the study claims, with a marked increase in teen birth rates of 3.4 percent by 2015. The cuts in 2011 were presided over by the former governor of Texas, and current Secretary of Energy, Rick Perry, who claimed that the cuts to planned parenthood would somehow decrease the number of abortions in the state. The actual effect of these cuts, according to Packham, is that teenage birth rates are on the rise instead. "I ﬁnd little evidence that reducing family planning funding achieved this goal," Packham wrote in her study. "The estimates suggest that nearly 2,200 teens would have not given birth absent the reduction in Texas family planning funding." The state also has the most cases of repeat teen pregnancies, according to the Center for Disease Control. On top of the problems caused by the closure of planned parenthood clinics, it probably doesn't help matters that 58 percent of school districts in the state offer abstinence-only education, and, incredibly, 25 percent of the districts offer no sex education whatsoever. [H/T: Chron]	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1328
__label__wiki	0.580886	0.580886	Home > Data Analytics > What Can We Infer When Justice Kilbride Asks the First Question in Criminal Cases? What Can We Infer When Justice Kilbride Asks the First Question in Criminal Cases? By Kirk Jenkins on May 31, 2017 Posted in Data Analytics, Illinois Supreme Court, Oral Argument Question Patterns Yesterday, we analyzed whether it’s possible, based on all oral arguments in criminal cases between 2009 and 2016, to infer from watching Justice Kilbride’s question patterns in criminal cases how he’s voting, and whether he’s writing an opinion. Today, we ask the same question based on whether or not Justice Kilbride asks the first question. The short answer is Justice Kilbride virtually never leads off the Court’s questions. When Justice Kilbride is in the majority of an affirmance in a criminal case, there’s a 2.13% chance he’ll ask the first question of appellants. He’s never asked the first question of appellees in such cases. Writing has an impact; when he’s writing the majority opinion in such cases, Justice Kilbride has asked the first question of appellants in 6.25% of cases. He hasn’t asked the first question to either side in the three affirmances where he’s written a special concurrence. In the affirmances where he hasn’t written an opinion, Justice Kilbride has averaged 1.64 questions to appellants. In the 167 cases where Justice Kilbride has voted in the majority of a reversal, he’s averaged 3.59 questions to appellants and 1.8 questions to appellees. He’s averaged 4 questions per argument to appellants in cases where he wrote the majority opinion, and 4 questions to appellees. When he’s not writing, he’s averaged 3.6 questions to appellants, and 1.45 questions to appellees. When Justice Kilbride votes with the minority in criminal cases, he asks the first question of appellants 20% of the time. He hasn’t asked the first question of appellees in any such cases. He’s asked the first question of appellants in 50% of the cases where he’s written a dissent, but hasn’t led off questioning in any case where he hasn’t written. Justice Kilbride hasn’t asked the first question in any criminal case where he voted in the minority of a reversal in a criminal case. Join us back here next Tuesday as we continue our analysis of the Court’s oral arguments. Image courtesy of Flickr by David Wilson (no changes).	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1331
__label__wiki	0.673108	0.673108	Birth Place Matching "Paris, Texas, USA" (Sorted by Popularity Ascending) 27 names. 1. Elle Evans Actress \| Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse Elle Evans was born on December 9, 1989 in Paris, Texas, USA as Lindsey Gayle Evans. She is an actress, known for Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse (2015), Muse (2017) and The Love Witch (2016). 2. Tia Lynn Ballard Actress \| Giruti Kuraun Raised on generous helpings wacky cartoons, this Southern blonde goofball has been in the animation industry for a while! Among others, she has provided the voice for Happy the Cat (Fairy Tail (2009)), Mizore Shirayuki (Rosario + Vampire (2008)), Nanami (Kamisama Kiss (2012)), Yoshino/Yoshinon (... 3. Beverly Leech Beverly Leech was born on May 23, 1959 in Paris, Texas, USA as Beverly Ann Leech. She is an actress, known for Blood Work (2002), Square One Television (1987) and Mathnet (1987). She has been married to Christian J. Meoli since May 21, 1999. She was previously married to Dennis Smeal. 4. Blake Neely Composer \| Arrow Blake Neely was born on April 28, 1969 in Paris, Texas, USA. He is known for his work on Arrow (2012), The Flash (2014) and The Mentalist (2008). 5. Ash Christian Producer \| Fat Girls Ash Christian is an Emmy Award winning producer with over 15 feature films & series to his credit. Recently Ash produced the SXSW hit film "1985" written and directed by Yen Tan and starting Cory Michael Smith, Virginia Madsen, Michael Chiklis and Jamie Chung. The film garnered rave reviews, many ... 6. Gene Rader Actor \| Close Encounters of the Third Kind Gene Rader was born on July 19, 1926 in Paris, Texas, USA. He was an actor, known for Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), The Sugarland Express (1974) and Battle Creek Brawl (1980). He was married to Dorothy Hendley. He died on October 4, 2014. 7. J.R. Horne Actor \| O Brother, Where Art Thou? J.R. Horne was born on January 5, 1944 in Paris, Texas, USA as Jim Horne. He was an actor, known for O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000), Burn After Reading (2008) and Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995). He died on January 14, 2016 in New York City, New York, USA. 8. Gordon McLendon Actor \| The Killer Shrews Gordon McLendon was born on June 8, 1921 in Paris, Texas, USA as Gordon Barton McLendon. He was a producer and actor, known for The Killer Shrews (1959), Victory (1981) and The Giant Gila Monster (1959). He was married to Susan Stafford and Anna Gray (Gay) Noe. He died on September 14, 1986 in Lake... 9. Sandi Sissel Camera Department \| Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World Sandi Sissel was born on August 9, 1949 in Paris, Texas, USA as Sandra Sue Sissel. She is known for her work on Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003), Salaam Bombay! (1988) and The People Under the Stairs (1991). 10. John Henry Allen Actor \| Charlie Chan at the Race Track John Henry Allen was born on December 23, 1895 in Paris, Texas, USA. He is an actor, known for Charlie Chan at the Race Track (1936), Wedding Present (1936) and The Virginia Judge (1935). 11. Carolyn Wickwire Actress \| Better Call Saul Carolyn was born in Paris, Texas, the daughter of James and Marian Garvin. She was graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1958. After a career in medical administration, she began working professionally as an actor in 1988, first mainly in commercials and industrials. Her first film role ... 12. Warren Jackson Actor \| The Secret Code Warren Jackson was born on February 12, 1892 in Paris, Texas, USA as Warren Royal Jackson. He was an actor, known for The Secret Code (1942), South of Panama (1941) and Alaska (1944). He died on May 10, 1950 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA. 13. Cottonseed Clark Actor \| Smoky River Serenade Cottonseed Clark was born on April 12, 1909 in Paris, Texas, USA as S. Clark Fulks. He was an actor, known for Smoky River Serenade (1947) and The Arkansas Swing (1948). He died on January 9, 1992 in Thousand Oaks, California, USA. 14. 'Junior' Burchinal 15. Trantario Jones Actor \| Urban Justice At a very young age he started writing and acting out plays for his church where his Grandfather was Pastor. It wasn't until college when he started to take it more seriously. He made his stage debut in The Foreigner. He later would go on to play Tom Robinson twice in To Kill A Mockingbird, Othello... 16. Charles Crenshaw Self \| Welcome to Sweetie Pie's Charles Crenshaw was born in Paris, Texas, USA. He died on November 15, 2001 in Fort Worth, Texas. 17. Andy Crash Kelly Actor \| For Sale by Owner Born in east Texas, Andy (nicknamed "Crash") broke away from his auto dealer family's roots to follow his dream of a radio career while still in high school. His skit-based shows were highly rated in Dallas, Fort Worth, New Orleans, El Paso, Green Bay, and several other cities. Morning radio fans ... 18. John Osteen Self \| Praise the Lord John Osteen was born on August 21, 1921 in Paris, Texas, USA. He was married to Dodie Osteen. He died on January 23, 1999 in Houston, Texas. 19. Fay Winn Actress \| The Apostle Fay Winn was born on July 15, 1936 in Paris, Texas, USA. She is an actress, known for The Apostle (1997). 20. Aaron Wallace Self \| The NFL on CBS Aaron Wallace was born on April 17, 1967 in Paris, Texas, USA as Aaron Jon Wallace. 21. Eddie Robinson Self \| 1948 World Series Eddie Robinson was born on December 15, 1920 in Paris, Texas, USA as William Edward Robinson. 22. Charles Baxter Actor \| True Tales 23. Gene Stallings Gene Stallings was born on March 2, 1935 in Paris, Texas, USA as Eugene Clifton Stallings. He is known for his work on The Bear (1984), The NFL on CBS (1956) and The NFL on NBC (1965). He has been married to Ruth Ann Jack since 1956. They have five children. 24. Dave Philley Dave Philley was born on May 16, 1920 in Paris, Texas, USA as David Earl Philley. He died on March 15, 2012 in Paris. 25. Jesse Crump Jesse Crump was born on January 15, 1897 in Paris, Texas, USA. He was married to Ida Cox. He died on April 21, 1974 in San Francisco, California, USA. 26. Dudley Early Writer \| Hello Cheyenne 27. Jill W. Pierce Actress \| The Bracelet of Bordeaux Jill W. Pierce was born on December 6, 1959 in Paris, Texas, USA as Laura Jill Walker. She is known for her work on The Bracelet of Bordeaux (2007), Sacrifice (2015) and Come to the Garden (2016).	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1332
__label__wiki	0.875806	0.875806	Education the key for one of the world's oldest civilisations How the survival of an ancient religious community rests on the hopes of Iraq’s first Catholic university. Author: Deborah Stone A Catholic university might be the last place one expects to find serious study of atheism. But at the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry (IRCI) at ACU, atheism is one of the major topics under examination. Atheism and Christianity: Moving Past Polemic is an ACU-led project which brings together an international and inter-disciplinary team of philosophers and theologians. The researchers – from ACU, Yale and KU Leuven – are exploring what atheism and Christianity have in common, and what they can learn from one another. The project’s leader, ACU philosopher and theologian Dr David Newheiser, said there was a profound anxiety about the place of religion in contemporary society, partly prompted by migration and the resulting changing religious make-up of western societies. But why does this anxiety matter? Dr Newheiser says, “There is a risk that religious and secular people will become hardened in their positions and see the other as a threat to their freedom.” The secular landscape Religion remains an important force in places like Indonesia and the United States. However in Australia, some Christians now claim they are losing religious freedom to a secular society. United States Attorney-General Jeff Sessions has announced a religious liberty taskforce in his department to counter what he calls the “dangerous movement” of secularism, “challenging and eroding our great tradition of religious freedom”. Dr Newheiser believes navigating the relationship between how religion influences values, and the secularism of the political sphere, is an important contemporary challenge. “What often gets missed in the polarised conversation that dominates the public discussion of religion is that there are complicated relationships between religion and the secular,” said Dr Newheiser. “Their histories intertwine. Appreciating their surprising affinities allows for much more open and complicated conversation and enables each side to learn from the other.” Not all atheists share the same beliefs Dr Newhiser went on to explain how prominent atheists such as Richard Dawkins and the late Christopher Hitchens represented only one variety of atheism and, like fundamentalist Christians, they tended to get a lot of air time. “Atheism is actually much deeper than a lot of the discussion of atheism today would suggest. Many of the well-known proponents of atheism today – the so-called ‘new Atheists’ – focus on whether a Divine being exists and try to tally up the evidence for or against. “But older atheist thinkers, like David Hume, Ludwig Feuerbach and Karl Marx, recognised that religion isn’t just a matter of believing certain propositions about the world. They focused on the way in which religion influences ethics, politics, and even aesthetics.” Early modern critics of Christianity, such as Hobbes and Voltaire, are often seen as the forbears of contemporary atheism. But their writings draw heavily on moral sensibilities that can be traced to Christian ideas. Contemporary atheism often emphasises the freedom of the individual to pursue truth, a concept which has its roots in the Protestant Reformation. “That’s not to say early atheists were secretly Christian,” said Dr Newheiser. “They disidentified with the religion around them, and that mattered. But it does mean they were drawing on a heritage that allowed points of intersection and tension with Christianity. They are often drawing on some strands of Christianity in order to criticise others.” On the flip side, some Christian thinkers use critiques developed by atheists to advance their ideas. Liberation theologian Gustavo Gutiérrez cited Karl Marx’s criticism of religion in his work, which argues that Christians have sometimes hindered the cause of economic and social justice. Atheism and Christianity – a match made in heaven Dr Newheiser hopes a more complex understanding of both Christianity and atheism will counter a growing impasse about the role of religion in public life. “On the one hand, there’s an idea that religion should simply be excluded from the public sphere. On the other, there’s a view – which I worry about – that Western society is founded upon Christianity and so we must cling to this heritage if we are going to have any foundation for morality. “I think these two opposing views are actually wrong for the same reason. They try to make a single principle, whether that’s secularism or Christianity, dominant. I think that’s not how societies work and it’s not how Christianity works. Both of them are too complex and multilayered to allow any single perspective to serve as their foundation. “I want to open the possibility that religious traditions can contribute to hot button issues like abortion or same sex marriage without trying to impose a theocratic authority on the public sphere.” Dr Newheiser said a key element of the project was the capacity of both parties to acknowledge the uncertainty surrounding the big questions of religion. There was a strong tradition of self-criticism within Christianity, but it was often drowned out by polemical discourse. “The loudest voices are claiming a sort of certainty that on the basis of their traditions they should not claim. It’s very appealing in some ways. People want to have certainty, it quiets anxieties. But there is a very deep tradition that is informed by the knowledge that we need to hold on to uncertainty.” Dr Newheiser is interested in negative theology, a form of theological thinking which says that human knowledge of God is always imperfect. Early Christian theologians developed this way of thinking in conversation with biblical traditions and ancient Greek philosophy. Elements of it also exist in Judaism and Islam. But he said some contemporary Christians attempt to exclude the capacity for doubt within theology. “It makes for a neat picture if the role of religious authority is to tell people what to do, and with the rise of evangelical Christianity that’s what gets the attention. But I would argue that living with uncertainty is essential.” In fact, Dr Newheiser believes that Christians who claim absolute certainty are profoundly un-Christian. “Anything that Christians say they need to hold loosely. Agnosticism is the precondition of faith. Christians who claim that they know with absolute certainty deny the possibility of faith.” Dr David Newheiser works in the areas of classic Christian thought and contemporary continental philosophy. He is a researcher in ACU’s Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry. Category Global Tags IRCI Research Theology Philosophy	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1333
__label__cc	0.698087	0.301913	Wydawnictwa / Czasopisma IMPAN / Dissertationes Mathematicae / Wszystkie zeszyty Ostatnie zeszyty Lambert series and Liouville's identities Tom 445 / 2007 A. Alaca, Ş. Alaca, E. McAfee, K. S. Williams Dissertationes Mathematicae 445 (2007), 1-72 MSC: 11R11, 11R27. DOI: 10.4064/dm445-0-1 The relationship between Liouville's arithmetic identities and products of Lambert series is investigated. For example it is shown that Liouville's arithmetic formula for the sum $$ \sum_{\textstyle {(a,b,x,y) \in \mathbb{N}^{{4}}\atop ax+by=n}} (F(a-b)-F(a+b)),$$ where $n\in \mathbb{N}$ and $F:\mathbb{Z} \rightarrow \mathbb{C}$ is an even function, is equivalent to the Lambert series for $$ \bigg( \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{q^n}{1-q^n} \sin n \theta \bigg)^2 \quad\ (\theta \in \mathbb{R} ,\, \|q\| <1)$$ given by Ramanujan. A. AlacaCentre for Research in Algebra and Number Theory Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6 Ş. AlacaCentre for Research in Algebra and Number Theory E. McAfeeCentre for Research in Algebra and Number Theory K. S. WilliamsCentre for Research in Algebra and Number Theory	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1334
__label__cc	0.618116	0.381884	Home » Lifestyle » Couple married for 75 years dies hand-in-hand Couple married for 75 years dies hand-in-hand Jul 6, 2015 749 Viewed Alka Anand Singh Comments Off on Couple married for 75 years dies hand-in-hand An American couple, who had been married for 75 years fulfilled their final wish to die in each other’s arms after they passed away holding hands, within hours of each other. Jeannette and Alexander Toczko were both born in Stamford, Connecticut, in 1919. The couple began dating when they were 8-year-old, according to their children Richard and Aimee. Jeannette, 96, and Alexander, 95, married in 1940. They moved to San Diego in the early 1970s. They wanted to be together until the very end. On June 17, just a couple weeks shy of their 75th wedding anniversary, their wish came true when Alexander died in Jeannette’s arms. Hours later, Jeanette died as well. “They said they wanted to go in their own bed holding hands and in each other’s arms,” the couple’s son Richard Toczko told ABC affiliate KGTV. The hospice was able to bring a bed for Alexander into their home, positioning it right beside the one Jeannette was using. “And he died in her arms, which is exactly what he wanted,” their daughter Aimee Toczko-Cushman said. “I went in there and told my mother he was gone; she hugged him and she said, ‘See this is what you wanted. You died in my arms and I love you. I love you, wait for me, I’ll be there soon.’” The couple, who had been dating since grade school, would have celebrated their 75th anniversary on June 29. The family celebrated it early this year. Alexander played every day, until he broke his hip in a recent fall, Toczko added. Alexander’s health quickly declined. As her husband’s condition worsened, Jeannette’s health also faded. The couple was buried on June 29. Filed in Lifestyle relationships How to beat the heat in summer Japanese retail giant teams up with Tajima for new life wear	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1335
__label__wiki	0.739936	0.739936	> Royalty Prince William and Kate's mental health engagement revealed October 01, 2015 - 11:13 BST hellomagazine.com The Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton and her husband Prince William will promote a cause close to her heart – the raising awareness of mental health problems among young people and children For her first engagement back following maternity leave, the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton chose to promote a cause close to her heart – the raising awareness of mental health problems among young people and children. Next week, the Duchess will be joined by her husband Prince William to once again champion this cause. William and Kate will travel to London's Harrow College on Saturday 10 October to attend an event run by mental health charity Mind, in collaboration with World Mental Health Day. The couple will meet young people who have experienced mental health problems and now volunteer with Mind. Kate and William are committed to raising awareness about mental health problems among children William and Kate, both 33, will learn about the new Mindkit project, which is being delivered across London and educates young people about emotional health and resilience. They will also be introduced to the anti-stigma campaign Time to Change, which aims to break down the stigma of speaking about mental health issues. "We are delighted that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will be joining Mind to celebrate this year's World Mental Health Day," Paul Farmer, CEO of Mind, said. "Their support will shine a spotlight on mental health and we hope it will spark conversations in households across the country, amplifying the vital message that it's time to talk about mental health. We hope it will encourage people to think about the little things we can all do to make a difference to anyone experiencing a mental health problem. "The Duke and Duchess are committed to raising awareness about the mental health problems faced by young people and we are grateful that they have chosen to champion Mind's work. We hope it will inspire a new generation of young people to not be afraid or ashamed to talk about mental health problems." The 33-year-old Duchess has spoken of the need for parents and teachers to speak to children The issue is one close to Kate's heart. The Duchess, who is a doting mum to Prince George and Princess Charlotte, is patron to various children's charities including Place2Be, a charity that provides counselling for students in schools. Showing her support for Children's Mental Health Week earlier this year, Kate recorded a video message in which she spoke about how she and William had witnessed children struggling to cope with the impact of issues such as bullying, bereavement, family breakdown and more. Kate called on parents and teachers to speak to youngsters, and for the social stigma around mental health to be lifted. British Royalty More about kate middleton Seeing double! When the royals look unbelievable as waxwork figures Kate Middleton wore a pair of high street shoes at Wimbledon and no-one noticed Royal fans will get to see Prince George next week – here's how Duchess Kate back at work and showing off new fringe Duchess Kate's first big night out without baby Charlotte as she attends Rugby World Cup Princes William and Harry to help build homes for ex-Army staff Prince William reveals his support network at anti-bullying workshop Kate goes behind bars to meet inmates during secret prison visit Prince William and Kate cheer Wales to victory at Rugby World Cup	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1337
__label__wiki	0.685124	0.685124	Journal of Ophthalmology To receive news and publication updates for Journal of Ophthalmology, enter your email address in the box below. Citations 34 PDF 2,046 Volume 2015, Article ID 627674, 13 pages Anti-VEGF Therapy and the Retina: An Update Vikas Tah,1 Harry O. Orlans,2 Jonathan Hyer,2 Edward Casswell,2 Nizar Din,2 Vishnu Sri Shanmuganathan,3 Louise Ramskold,2 and Saruban Pasu2 1The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, Craven Road, Reading RG1 5AN, UK 2Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London EC1V 2PD, UK 3St George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK Received 16 March 2015; Revised 28 June 2015; Accepted 5 July 2015 Academic Editor: Tamer A. Macky Copyright © 2015 Vikas Tah et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Ocular angiogenesis and macular oedema are major causes of sight loss across the world. Aberrant neovascularisation, which may arise secondary to numerous disease processes, can result in reduced vision as a result of oedema, haemorrhage, and scarring. The development of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents has revolutionised the treatment of retinal vasogenic conditions. These drugs are now commonly employed for the treatment of a plethora of ocular pathologies including choroidal neovascularisation, diabetic macular oedema, and retinal vein occlusion to name a few. In this paper, we will explore the current use of anti-VEGF in a variety of retinal diseases and the impact that these medications have had on visual outcome for patients. Ocular angiogenesis is a cause of severe worldwide visual loss and ocular morbidity. However, the development of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) has revolutionised the treatment of a plethora of ocular angiogenic disease processes. It has become the favoured therapy for conditions such as choroidal neovascularisation, diabetic macula oedema, vein occlusions, myopic choroidal neovascularisation, and retinopathy of prematurity to name a few [1]. In 2013, Avastin (bevacizumab) and Lucentis (ranibizumab) were ranked 9th and 19th, respectively, in terms of top global sales of pharmaceutical products emphasising their impact in medicine as a whole [2]. It could be argued that the evolution of anti-VEGF therapy can be traced back to 1948, where Michaelson hypothesised that a diffusible, hypoxia-induced, angiogenic “factor X” was responsible for iris and retinal neovascularisation associated with ischaemic retinopathies. Decades later, a candidate glycoprotein was partially described and termed vascular permeability factor. Further research extended our understanding of this endothelial cell-specific glycoprotein; however, it was only in 1989; Leung et al. isolated an endothelial mitogen from pituitary follicular cells leading to it being branded, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). At the same time, Keck et al. discovered a tumour-derived factor named vascular permeability factor (VPF), which was responsible for inducing vascular permeability. Since then, researchers strongly suggest that this diffusible, hypoxia-induced, endothelial cell-specific factor VEGF conceivably represents Michelson’s retinal tissue “factor X” [3]. Subsequent sequencing of these two genes led to the realisation that the factors were in fact identical. In a further study, where the retinas of primates were rendered ischaemic by laser photocoagulation of the veins, neovascularisation of the iris developed suggesting the presence of a diffusible molecule. That diffusible molecule was found to be VEGF mRNA [4]. Furthermore, elevated levels of VEGF in ocular fluids from patients with active neovascular ocular disease were found compared with ocular fluids with no vascularisation. All the evidence of angiogenesis points to the role of VEGF in ocular neovascularisation [5]. In 1997, Genetech initiated phase 1 trials for the development of an anti-VEGF molecule named Avastin (bevacizumab). Subsequent successful results from phases 2 and 3 trials led to FDA approval in February 2004 for the treatment of colon cancer in combination with chemotherapy [6]. Furthermore, with the knowledge that VEGF played a significant role in neovascular AMD, FDA approved pegaptanib (Macugen) was created, making it the first antiangiogenic therapy for ocular neovascularisation [7]. After approval of bevacizumab for cancer therapy and VEGF’s role in wet AMD, systemic IV bevacizumab was used as an off-label medication [8]. Ophthalmologists soon began to inject bevacizumab into the vitreous cavity leading to positive results virtually eliminating the systemic side effects [9]. Believing that bevacizumab would not efficiently diffuse through the retina to reach the choroid, Genetech decided to generate a truncated alternative molecule. Ranibizumab (Lucentis) was determined effective by two pivotal trials: the MARINA (minimally classic/occult trial of the anti-VEGF antibody ranibizumab in the treatment of neovascular AMD) and ANCHOR (anti-VEGF antibody for the treatment of predominantly classic choroidal neovascularisation in AMD) trials. Both of these trials were the first phase 3 trials to show improvement in visual outcomes for all forms of choroidal neovascularisation and were given FDA approval in 2006 [10, 11]. A recent anti-VEGF strategy, developed by Regeneron, consisted of a chimeric fusion protein that acted as a decoy receptor to sequester VEGF and thereby block its biological effects. Aflibercept was developed to improve the pharmacokinetics of VEGF binding with reduced frequency of dosing. Based on the VIEW study, aflibercept was approved by the FDA in November 2011 [12]. In this paper, we will explore the current indications of anti-VEGF in a variety of ocular angiogenic conditions that has changed the visual outcomes of patients. 2. DMO Diabetic macular oedema (DMO or DME) is the leading cause of visual impairment in patients aged 20 to 74 and represents a significant burden of disease with the increasing incidence and prevalence of diabetes worldwide [13, 14]. The development of DMO occurs as a result of vascular endothelial damage with breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier. Hypoxia caused by microvascular disease stimulates the release of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) which is a major contributor to this vascular permeability and angiogenesis [15]. Ranibizumab (IVR) (Lucentis; Genentech Inc.; marketed by Novartis in Europe) belongs to a class of drugs that block the action of VEGF-A, thus reducing oedema and stabilising or improving vision. It has a European marketing authorisation for the “treatment of visual impairment due to macular oedema in adults” and has been recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in April 2013 as a treatment option if the eye has a central retinal thickness of 400 micrometres (μm) or more at the start of treatment [16]. This is also conditional on the manufacturer providing IVR with the discount agreed upon in the patient access scheme. The four randomised controlled trials (RCTs) submitted to NICE as evidence for clinical effectiveness included RESTORE (ranibizumab monotherapy or combined with laser versus laser monotherapy for diabetic macular edema), Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network Protocol I (DRCR.net), RESOLVE (Safety and Efficacy of Ranibizumab in Diabetic Macular Edema), and READ-2 (Ranibizumab for Edema of the mAcula in Diabetes) [17–21]. The RESTORE and DRCR.net (Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network) RCTs received detailed attention whilst the others were judged to be of less direct relevance. The RESTORE trial concluded IVR monotherapy and combined with laser provided superior visual acuity (measured with Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study- (ETDRS-) like charts) gain over patients treated with laser alone. At month 12, the visual acuity of eyes randomised to IVR monotherapy rose by a mean average of 6.1 letters and eyes randomised to IVR plus laser photocoagulation gained a mean average of 5.9 letters. Eyes randomised to laser photocoagulation alone gained fewer letters (0.8) than eyes randomised to either IVR-containing arm (). Mean central thickness was significantly reduced from baseline with IVR (−118.7 μm) and IVR plus laser (−128.3 μm) versus laser (−61.3 μm); both . IVR monotherapy combined with laser had a safety profile in DMO similar to that in age-related macular degeneration with no endophthalmitis cases reported and one reported patient with increased intraocular pressure in each IVR arm. The DRCR.net trial was funded by the US National Institute of Health and was a multicentre randomised (by eye rather than participant) to sham injection and prompt laser (), IVR and prompt laser (), IVR and deferred (≥24 weeks) laser (), or triamcinolone and prompt laser (). Only the results of 12-month follow-up were available for the NICE technology appraisal, although two-year follow-up is now published [18]. Compared with the sham injection plus prompt laser group, the mean change in the visual acuity (ETDRS) letter score from baseline was 3.7 letters greater in the IVR plus prompt laser group, 5.8 letters greater in the IVR plus deferred laser group, and 1.5 letters worse in the triamcinolone plus prompt laser group. Three eyes had injection-related endophthalmitis in the IVR groups. Although none of the RCTs of IVR in DMO were designed primarily to assess safety outcomes, no significant differences were observed between arms in the frequency of ocular and nonocular adverse events. The approval of IVR by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for DMO was based on Genentech’s phase III trials, RIDE, and RISE [22]. These trials were identically designed, parallel, double-blind, multicentre, three-year trials. Subjects received 0.3 mg IVR (), 0.5 mg IVR (), or sham injection (). All patients were evaluated monthly for the need for macular laser according to protocol-specified criteria including central foveal thickness ≥ 250 μm. In RISE, 18% of sham patients gained ≥ 15 letters versus 45% of 0.3 mg (; difference versus sham adjusted for randomisation stratification factors, 24%) and 39% of 0.5 mg IVR patients (; adjusted difference, 21%). In RIDE, 12% of sham patients gained ≥ 15 letters versus 34% of 0.3 mg patients (; adjusted difference, 21%) and 46% of 0.5 mg IVR patients (; adjusted difference, 33%). IVR patients underwent significantly fewer macular laser procedures and ocular safety was consistent with other IVR studies (endophthalmitis in 4 IVR patients). Guidance by NICE states that up to 0.5 mg of IVR should be given monthly and continued until maximum visual acuity is reached, defined as stable visual acuity for three consecutive months. The FDA has approved the lower dose of 0.3 mg, once monthly injections of IVR for DMO. The discrepancy in the approved dosages relates to cost effectiveness. It appears that the lower dose of 0.3 mg has a similar success profile to the higher 0.5 mg dose; however the NHS is able to obtain the drug at a discounted rate through a patient access scheme and therefore prescribe up to 0.5 mg for the same cost [23]. Bevacizumab (IVB, Avastin; Genentech Inc.) is a full-length humanised antibody that binds all forms of VEGF-A. It is not licensed for intraocular use but is a much less costly alternative with a good evidence base. The Decision Support Unit (DSU) is commissioned by NICE to provide research to support the Institute’s Technology Appraisal Programme. As such, they have evaluated the efficacy of IVB for the treatment of DMO [23]. Based on seven RCTs, they conclude that efficacy measures for visual acuity (BCVA ETDRS ≥ 15 letters) favoured IVB compared with laser therapy, although the effect size is diminished as follow-up time is increased. BCVA LogMAR scores indicate that only longer-term treatment is advantageous over laser therapy, whilst changes in central retinal thickness did not indicate that IVB confers a sustained advantage over laser therapy. Of note, some trials were not included within the report such as the 24-month data from the BOLT study [24]. This was a prospective, masked, single centre, two-arm trial with subjects randomised to either IVB or macular laser therapy. At two years, the IVB group gained a mean of 8.6 ETDRS letters, whereas the laser group lost a mean of 0.5 ETDRS letters (). Mean reduction in central retinal thickness was 146 μm in the IVB arm versus 118 μm in the laser arm. It is likely that the use of IVB is limited in NHS patients mainly as a result of NICE guidance in favour of an alternative therapy [23]. Aflibercept (IVA, Eyelea; Regeneron/Bayer HealthCare) is a recent addition to the anti-VEGF class. It is a fully human, soluble VEGF receptor fusion protein that targets all forms of VEGF-A and placental growth factor. The da Vinci Study Group published one-year outcomes comparing different doses and dosing regimens of IVA with macular laser in patients with DMO [25]. The study was an industry sponsored double-masked, multicentre phase 2 clinical trial which randomised patients into one of five groups. Mean improvements in BCVA in the IVA groups at week 52 were 11.0, 13.1, 9.7, and 12.0 letters for different dosing regimens (0.5 mg every 4 weeks, 2 mg every 4 weeks, 2 mg every 8 weeks after 3 initial monthly doses, and 2 mg as needed after 3 initial monthly doses, resp.) versus −1.3 letters for the laser group ( versus laser). Mean reductions in central retinal thickness in the IVA groups at week 52 were −165.4 μm, −227.4 μm, −187.8 μm, and −180.3 μm versus −58.4 μm for laser ( versus laser). Two similarly designed, double-masked, randomised phase 3 trials ( and ) compared IVA (2 mg every 4 weeks (2q4) and 2 mg every 8 weeks (2q8) groups) with laser treatment for DMO [26]. Mean BCVA gains from baseline to week 52 in the IVA 2q4 and 2q8 groups versus the laser group were 12.5 and 10.7 versus 0.2 letters () in VISTA and 10.5 and 10.7 versus 1.2 letters () in VIVID. Similarly, mean reductions in central retinal thickness were 185.9 and 183.1 versus 73.3 μm () in VISTA and 195.0 and 192.4 versus 66.2 μm () in VIVID. Incidences of ocular and nonocular adverse events were similar across treatment groups. Further studies comparing IVA, IVR, and IVB are being performed by the DRCR.net group with expected reporting date January 2016 [27]. IVA has very recently been approved by the European Commission for the treatment of visual impairment as a result of DMO. It is due for NICE technology appraisal in June 2015. The recommended dose of IVA for the treatment of DMO is 2 mg. Treatment is initiated with one injection per month for five consecutive doses, followed by one injection every two months without any requirement for monitoring between injections. After the first 12 months of treatment, the treatment interval may be extended based on visual and anatomic outcomes. A full discussion with regard to the role of intravitreal steroids or laser photocoagulation is beyond the scope of this report. It is worth mentioning that a NICE technology appraisal recommends fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant (Iluvien, Alimera Sciences Inc.) for pseudophakic patients with DMO unresponsive to other treatment options [28]. Ozurdex (dexamethasone intravitreal implant) has recently received a European marketing license for the use in “adult patients with visual impairment due to DMO who are pseudophakic or who are considered insufficiently responsive to or unsuitable for noncorticosteroid therapy.” NICE technology appraisal is due in April 2015. Steroid implants may reduce the frequency of intravitreal injections but have recognised complications of increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation. Overall, there is high quality evidence that anti-VEGF drugs provide benefit compared with other therapeutic options for DMO. This is supported by Systematic Reviews published in the Cochrane Library and a similar review produced by the American Academy of Ophthalmology [29]. This concluded that “anti-VEGF pharmacotherapy, delivered by intravitreal injection, is reasonably safe and effective in the treatment of DME.” A statement by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists in their published diabetic retinopathy guidelines confirms that “anti-VEGF injections are considered the new gold standard of therapy for eyes with centre-involving macular oedema and reduced vision” [30, 31]. Future research should now compare these drugs and treatment regimens to help refine clinical care pathways. 3. AMD Recently, the targeted therapy of VEGF has revolutionised the treatment of neovascular AMD. In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first treatment targeting VEGF, pegaptanib sodium injection (Macugen; EyeTech, New York, NY). This is a pegylated aptamer which binds to the 165 isoform of VEGF. The VISION (VEGF Inhibition Study in Ocular Neovascularisation) study was a prospective randomised double-masked trial to assess the benefit of treating early subfoveal CNV secondary to AMD with pegaptanib sodium [7]. It randomised 1186 subjects to sham versus 3 doses of the drug, with each receiving an injection every 6 weeks. All 3 pegaptanib groups showed efficacy over sham treatment. 70% of those treated with the lowest (0.3 mg) dose avoided 3 or more lines of visual loss at 1 year, compared to 55% of controls [7]. VA was maintained in the 2nd year of the study [32]. In 2006, the antibody fragment, ranibizumab, was approved for use in neovascular AMD by the FDA. The landmark ANCHOR and MARINA studies aimed to access the efficacy of ranibizumab in both classic and minimally classic/occult neovascular AMD, respectively [11]. ANCHOR was a 2-year, randomised, double-blind trial comparing ranibizumab with PDT in predominantly classic subfoveal CNV [11, 33]. Patients had to be over 50, BCVA 20/40 to 20/320, and with a lesion size of less than 5400 microns. 423 subjects were randomised into 3 groups (3 monthly PDT and monthly sham intravitreal injections; monthly 0.3 mg ranibizumab with 3 monthly sham PDT; monthly 0.5 mg ranibizumab with 3 monthly sham PDT). After 1 year, 94.3% of 0.3 mg ranibizumab and 96.4% of the 0.5 mg ranibizumab groups lost less than 15 letters compared to 64.3% of those in the PDT group () [11]. VA improved by 15 letters or more in 35.7% of the 0.3 mg group and 40.3% of the 0.5% group, versus 5.6% of the PDT group () [11]. These improvements were maintained at 2 years [33]. On average, VA improved over 8.1 to 10.7 letters from baseline, compared to an average loss of 9.8 letters in the PDT group. The anatomical lesion characteristics also improved in the ranibizumab group versus the control group. It concluded that both doses of ranibizumab were superior to PDT for classic neovascular AMD. Its sister study, the MARINA trial, was a similar 2-year multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study comparing ranibizumab versus sham in minimally classic or occult CNV [11]. Patients had to be over 50, BCVA 20/40 to 20/320, and with a lesion of less than 12 disc diameters. 716 subjects were randomised to monthly sham, 0.3 mg ranibizumab, and 0.5 mg ranibizumab injections. At 1 year, 94.5% of the 0.3 mg group and 94.6% of the 0.5 mg group lost less than 15 letters, compared to 62.2% of the placebo group. VA improved by 15 letters in 24.5% of the 0.3 mg group and 33.8% of the 0.5 mg group, versus 5% of the sham group. The average improvement in VA was 6.5 letters in the 0.3 mg group and 7.2 letters in the 0.5 mg group, compared to a loss of 10.4 letters in the sham group. These improvements were maintained at 2 years. Both studies demonstrated that ranibizumab was effective at treating both classic and occult neovascular AMD. Following the encouraging results of ANCHOR and MARINA, focus then shifted to investigating potential dosing regimens for ranibizumab in an attempt to reduce the treatment burden of monthly injections. The PIER study was a 2-year RCT involving 184 patients given quarterly injections after an initial 24-month period with a subsequent phase of monthly injections in the latter part of year 2 [34]. It found that although average VA improved in the treatment groups for the first 3 months, there was a gradual decline in VA (approximately 2 letters) from months 4 to 24 when on quarterly dosing. This compared poorly to the VA stabilisation seen in the ANCHOR and MARINA trials. The EXCITE trial then directly compared monthly versus quarterly ranibizumab injections over 1 year [35]. It again found that VA improved in both regimes over the first 3 months and declined in the quarterly groups over the next 9 months. Average letters gained at 1 year were 8.3 letters in the monthly group, 4.9 letters in the 0.3 mg group, and 3.8 letters in the 0.5 mg group. This further supported the notion that although quarterly injections improved VA in neovascular AMD, it was not as effective as monthly injections. The PrONTO (prospective optical coherence tomography imaging of patients with neovascular AMD treated with intraocular ranibizumab) trial was a small, nonrandomised, uncontrolled, open-label study which used OCT to vary ranibizumab dosing following a 3-month loading phase [36]. Thirty-seven patients were retreated if there was persistence or increase of intraretinal fluid and decrease in VA of 5 or more letters or a new haemorrhage/area of CNV. Over 2 years, it found an average improvement of 11.1 letters, with a mean number of injections of 9.9. These results were comparable to ANCHOR and MARINA but were limited by the study design and small sample size. The SUSTAIN (safety and efficacy of a flexible dosing regimen of ranibizumab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration) study was a larger, 1 year single arm study which again involved PRN ranibizumab dosing following a 3-month loading phase [37]. Five hundred and thirteen patients were recruited, with parameters for retreatment being loss of more than 5 letters or increase of 100 microns in CRT. Mean BCVA was +5.8 letters at month 3, decreasing to +3.6 letters at 12 months. Average number of injections after loading was 2.7. This suggested that although VA improvement does decline slightly on PRN dosing, it may not worsen as much as the PIER study had reported. This paved the way for the HARBOR study [38]. This was a randomised, double-blind treatment-controlled study. 1098 patients were randomised to receive 0.5 mg or 2 mg ranibizumab on a monthly or PRN basis. Patients had to be over 50 with CNV < 12 disk diameters and BCVA 20/40 to 20/320. At 12 months, it found that the average gain in VA letters was +10.1 (0.5 mg monthly), +9.2 (2 mg monthly), +8.2 mg (0.5 mg PRN), and +8.6 mg (2 mg PRN) [38]. The mean change from baseline in CRT in the 4 groups was −172.0 μm, −161.2 μm, −163.3 μm, and −172.4 μm, respectively. The PRN groups required an average of 6.9–7.7 injections over the year. This study demonstrated that monthly doses of 0.5 mg ranibizumab produce the optimum visual results for patients with neovascular AMD, although PRN dosing does lead to clinically meaningful visual improvement not significantly different than monthly dosing. It also showed that quadrupling the dose does not improve VA results. Some clinicians support a “treat and extend” regime, which involves treating monthly until the macula is dry and then incrementally increasing time between injections whilst the macular remains dry [39, 40]. This seems to lead to stabilised VA with a reduction in injections but has not been assessed with a prospective, randomised controlled trial. In 2004, intravenous bevacizumab was approved for the treatment of metastatic colon cancer, and this leads to a number of ophthalmologists using the drug off-label as an intravitreal injection. This offered a cheaper alternative to ranibizumab, although there were concerns over its safety and lack of trial data. In response to this, the CATT (Comparison of AMD Treatments Trials) and IVAN (Lucentis and Avastin effective in treating wet AMD) studies aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of using ranibizumab versus bevacizumab [41, 42]. The CATT trial was a multicentre, randomised trial involving 1208 subjects comparing the efficacy and side effects of monthly or PRN regimes of ranibizumab 0.5 mg and bevacizumab 1.25 mg [41]. At 1 year, CATT could not demonstrate that PRN bevacizumab was not inferior to monthly ranibizumab (RBZ monthly: +8.5 letters; BVZ monthly: +8 letters; RBZ PRN: +6.8 letters; BVZ PRN: +5.9 letters), although anatomically RBZ led to a greater decrease in CRT. Whilst it found that there was no difference in rates of death, stroke, or myocardial infarction, it did find that there was increased rate of hospitalization in the BVZ group (24.1% versus 19%). At 2 years, mean gain was again similar between the 2 groups, although monthly dosing performed better than PRN dosing. Rates of death and thrombotic events were the same, although numbers of patients with “one or more serious systemic adverse events” was higher in the BVZ group (39.9% versus 31.7%) [42]. This persisted even when previously recognised anti-VEGF adverse events were removed. IVAN was a smaller, similarly designed NHS-funded trial, recruiting 628 patients [42]. At 2 years, it found that BCVA was similar between the RBZ and BVZ groups and between the monthly and PRN regimes, although the primary outcome of BVZ being noninferior to RBZ was not met [42]. Pooled safety estimates of both trials found that there was no difference in death or thrombotic events between the 2 drugs but risk of systemic adverse events was higher in the BVZ group. Unexpectedly, it also found that the risk of death was higher in the PRN regime versus monthly regime. The authors suggested that this may be due to an immunological reaction and that further investigation was needed. In 2011, aflibercept (VEGF Trap-Eye) was approved for use by the FDA. This is a fusion protein that binds to all isoforms of VEGF, with greater affinity than RBZ and BVZ. There was a hope that this increased VEGF-binding activity would decrease the frequency of injections. This prompted the VIEW 1 and 2 studies. These were 2 paired, multicentre, double-blind RCTs [43]. 2419 patients were randomised to aflibercept 0.5 mg monthly; aflibercept 2 mg monthly; aflibercept 2 mg two monthly (after loading phase); and RBZ 0.5 mg monthly. The study found that at year 1, all aflibercept groups were noninferior to the RBZ monthly groups, with the average BCVA of all 3 within 0.5 letters of the RBZ group [44]. Between year 1 and year 2, all the groups were changed from a fixed regimen to a variable regimen requiring at least quarterly dosing (capped PRN) [retreatment if loss of 5 letters, new or persistent fluid on OCT, increase in CRT of 100 microns, or new haemorrhage/CNV]. They found no difference between the groups, although there was a small decrease in BCVA letters gained during the 2nd year, in keeping with previous studies [43]. The groups needed 4.1–4.7 injections in the 2nd year. There were no differences in serious adverse events between any of the groups. The study showed that two monthly aflibercept gave equivalent VA results to monthly RBZ over 2 years, whilst needing 5 fewer injections. It did not however compare the groups to fixed-dosing RBZ or aflibercept over the full 2 years, which may have given better BCVA results. With regard to future treatments, there are numerous new drugs for AMD going through phase II studies [45]. Among them is Fovista, a compound which inhibits platelet-derived growth factor from binding to pericytes. This would potentially increase the effectivity of anti-VEGF drugs. A recent phase 2 study showed that 6 monthly Fovista injections in combination with monthly RBZ were 60% more effective than RBZ alone [46]. This is currently undergoing phase III trials. Also of note is potential topical anti-VEGF agents, which would eliminate many of the risks or burden of regular intravitreal injections. PanOptica are currently testing PAN-90806, a topical small molecule VEGF antagonist in wet AMD. SAILOR (Safety Assessment of Intravitreous Lucentis fOR AMD) investigated RBZ in a large population of 4300. Results were determined by angiography surveying subfoveal CNV secondary to AMD. This study showed RBZ was safe and well tolerated in a large population and a low risk of thromboembolism. HORIZON (An Open-Label Extension Trial of Ranibizumab for Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration) was a 2 year study investigating the long term safety and efficacy in 853 patients completing the controlled treatment phase of 1 of the 3 2-yr clinical trials (ANCHOR, MARINA & FOCUS). Incidence of serious ocular and non-ocular adverse events over the 2 yrs were low and consistent with previous phase 3 studies. SANA (Systemic Avastin for Neovascular AMD) examined the short term safety of systemic BVZ in 9 patients with subfoveal CNV and BCVA letter scores of 70 to 20 and CRT > 300 microns. Safety was measured by, change in VA scores, OCT measurement, fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography. The study proposed that BVZ was effective and safe for all patients over 24 months whilst acknowledging the study size. ABC (Avastin (BVZ) for choroidal neovascular age-related macular degeneration) was a double masked randomised controlled trial with two parallel treatment groups IVT BVZ versus PDT (for classic) or pagaptanib (for occult). 131 patients were researched with 126 remaining for analysis. The proportion of patients gaining/losing > 15 letters at 1 yr demonstrated BVZ being more effective than standard care with low rates of adverse events. 4. RVO Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a common cause of visual loss in the United Kingdom and is the second most common retinal vascular disease after diabetic retinopathy [47, 48]. RVOs can be divided into two categories depending on the site of obstruction: central RVO (CRVO) when occlusion involved the whole central retinal vein and branch RVO (BRVO) when the occlusion involves only one branch of the central retinal vein [49]. BRVO occurs 2-3 times more commonly than CRVO [50, 51]. In the Beaver Dam Eye Study the 15-year cumulative incidence of CRVO and BRVO was 0.5 and 1.8%, respectively [52]. The pathogenesis of RVO is multifactorial with thrombus formation being the primary cause but other possible causes are external compression or disease of the vein wall, for example, vasculitis. BRVO occurs at arteriovenous crossing sites [53]. CRVO is caused by external compression of the central retinal vein, which shares a common fibrous sleeve with the vein [54]. BRVO and CRVO typically occur in middle aged and elderly patients (i.e., over age of 50 years) with equal sex distribution. CRVO is classically characterised by disc oedema, increased dilatation and tortuosity of all retinal veins, widespread of deep and superficial haemorrhages, cotton wool spots, retinal oedema, and capillary nonperfusion. In less severe forms the disc oedema may be absent. BRVOs have similar features except that they are confined to a portion of the fundus. The main cause of visual loss in RVO is macular oedema. Visual outcome of CRVO depends on the visual acuity at presentation. Eyes with initial visual acuity of 6/12 (20/40) or better have a better prognosis for retaining good vision than those with worse vision. In BRVOs 50% of untreated eyes retain vision of 6/12 or better whilst 25% will have vision < 6/60 [50]. Up to 34% of nonischaemic CRVO convert to ischaemic forms within 3 years. VEGF is produced by retinal pigmented epithelial cells, endothelial cells, Muller cells, and other ocular tissues in response to retinal hypoxia and binds to specific receptors on endothelial cells acting as a proangiogenetic factor. This in turn leads to neovascularization and vascular hyperpermeability with subsequent breakdown of the blood-retina barrier and macular oedema [55]. Until recently the standard of care for macular oedema secondary to BRVO was macular grid laser [47, 48]. Macular laser photocoagulation is not recommended for the treatment of macular oedema in CRVO because it does not guarantee a significant improvement in visual acuity. Panretinal photocoagulation of the ischemic retina is indicated both in BRVO and in CRVO if iris, retinal, or disc neovascularization is present. Currently available anti-VEGF agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept, and bevacizumab) have been applied successfully in reducing macular oedema due to RVO. In May 2013 NICE recommended ranibizumab (Lucentis, Novartis) as a possible treatment for some people who have sight problems because of macular oedema caused by retinal vein occlusion. Indications include macular oedema in CRVO or in BRVO only if previous grid laser has failed or laser is not suitable due to the extent of haemorrhage. Two randomized, double-masked, multicenter phase 3 trials, the CRUISE (central retinal vein occlusion) and BRAVO (branch retinal vein occlusion) studies, evaluated the efficacy of ranibizumab, compared with a sham procedure, for treating visual impairment caused by macular oedema secondary to BRVO and to CRVO, respectively [56, 57]. The BRAVO () and CRUISE () trials were both 3-armed RCTs carried out at multiple centres in the USA. Patients were eligible if they had foveal-involved macular oedema from a CRVO or BRVO occurring within 12 months of study entry, BCVA of 20/40 to 20/320 (in CRVO) and to 20/400 (in BRVO), and centre subfield thickness (CST) ≥ 250 μm. Patients were randomised equally to sham injection, monthly intraocular ranibizumab 0.3 mg, or monthly intraocular ranibizumab 0.5 mg. Patients entered a 6-month treatment phase during which monthly injections were given. In the treatment phase of BRAVO, patients in both the sham injection and ranibizumab groups could receive grid laser photocoagulation for rescue treatment from 3 months. In both BRAVO and CRUISE, the treatment phase was followed by a 6-month observation phase during which all groups could receive ranibizumab as needed. Patients in the observation phase of BRAVO (but not CRUISE) could receive grid laser photocoagulation for rescue treatment for 3 months (i.e., at month 9 of the study). The final treatment in both BRAVO and CRUISE was given at month 11, with a final study visit at month 12. Patients who completed the 12-month BRAVO and CRUISE trials could enter an open-label extension study (HORIZON). For patients enrolled in the CRUISE study baseline characteristics were well balanced among the three groups; the mean age was 68 years, mean BCVA was 20/100, the mean time from diagnosis of CRVO was 3.3 months, and the mean center point thickness (CPT) was 685 μm. At 6 months, the primary endpoint, mean change from baseline BCVA letter score, was 12.7 and 14.9 in the 0.3 mg and 0.5 mg ranibizumab groups and 0.8 in the sham group . The percentage of patients who gained ≥ 15 letters in BCVA was 46.2% (0.3 mg) and 47.7% (0.5 mg) in the ranibizumab groups and 16.9% in the sham group . The percentage of patients with a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/40 or better was 43.9% (0.3 mg) and 46.9% (0.5 mg) compared with 20.8% in the sham group . The percentage of patients with a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/200 or worse was 15.2% (0.3 mg) and 11.5% (0.5 mg) compared with 27.7% in the sham group . Based upon the NEI VFQ-25 survey, patients who received ranibizumab felt they had greater improvement (improvement from baseline in NEI VFQ score: 7.1, 0.3 mg; 6.2, 0.5 mg; 2.8, sham). There was greater reduction of macular edema in the ranibizumab groups because CPT was reduced by 433.7 μm (0.3 mg) and 452.3 μm (0.5 mg) compared to 167.7 μm in the sham group. The percentage of patients with CPT ≤ 250 μm at 6 months was 75.0% (0.3 mg), 76.9% (0.5 mg), and 23.1% (sham, ). This study demonstrated that six sessions of monthly injections of 0.3 mg or 0.5 mg reduced macular oedema and provided substantial visual benefit in patients with CRVO. Baseline characteristics for those involved in the BRAVO study were well balanced among the three groups; mean BCVA was 20/80, the mean time from diagnosis of BRVO was 3.5 months, and the mean CPT was 520 μm. Starting at month 3, patients were eligible for grid laser treatment if hemorrhages had cleared sufficiently to allow safe application of laser and the following criteria were met: Snellen equivalent BCVA ≤ 20/40 or mean CST ≥ 250 μm, and compared with the visit 3 months before the current visit, the patient had a gain of <5 letters in BCVA or a decrease of <50 μm in mean CST. If rescue laser was not given at month 3, the same criteria were applied at month 4, and if rescue laser was not given at month 4, the criteria were applied at month 5. At month 6, the primary endpoint, mean change from baseline BCVA letter score, was 16.6 and 18.3 in the 0.3 mg and 0.5 mg ranibizumab groups and 7.3 in the sham group . The percentage of patients who gained ≥ 15 letters in BCVA was 55.2% (0.3 mg) and 61.1% (0.5 mg) in the ranibizumab groups and 28.8% in the sham group . The percentage of patients with a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/40 or better was 67.9% (0.3 mg) and 64.9% (0.5 mg) compared with 41.7% in the sham group . The percentage of patients with a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/200 or worse was 1.5% (0.3 mg) and 0.8% (0.5 mg) compared with 9.1% in the sham group . Based upon the NEI VFQ-25 survey, patients who received ranibizumab felt they had greater improvement (improvement from baseline in NEI VFQ score: 9.3, 0.3 mg; 10.4, 0.5 mg; 5.4, sham). There was greater reduction of macular oedema in the ranibizumab groups because CPT was reduced by 337.3 μm (0.3 mg) and 345.2 μm (0.5 mg) compared to 157.7 μm in the sham group. The percentage of patients with CPT ≤ 250 μm at month 6 was 91% (0.3 mg), 84.7% (0.5 mg), and 45.5% (sham, ). More patients in the sham group (54.5%) received rescue grid laser therapy than in the 0.3 mg (18.7%) or 0.5 mg (19.8%) ranibizumab groups. There were no safety signals identified in either trial. After the primary endpoint in the CRUISE and BRAVO trials, patients were evaluated every month and if study eye Snellen equivalent BCVA was ≤20/40 or mean CST was ≥250 μm, they received an injection of ranibizumab; patients in the ranibizumab groups received their assigned dose and patients in the sham group received 0.5 mg. In patients with CRVO, the mean number of ranibizumab injections during the observation period was 3.9, 3.6, and 4.2 in the 0.3 mg, 0.5 mg, and sham/0.5 mg groups; and the percentage of patients that did not receive any injections during the observation period was 7.0, 6.7, and 4.3, respectively [56]. At month 12 in the ranibizumab groups, the improvement from baseline in ETDRS letter score was 13.9, very similar to the month 6 results, indicating that vision is well maintained when injections are given only if there is recurrent or residual macular oedema. Patients in the sham group showed substantial improvement during the observation period when they were able to receive ranibizumab; improvement from baseline in letter score was 0.8 at month 6 and 7.3 at month 12. The percentage of patients who had an improvement from baseline BCVA letter score ≥ 15 at month 12 was 47.0% (0.3 mg) and 50.8% (0.5 mg) in the ranibizumab groups, almost identical to the month 6 results. In the sham group, 33.1% of patients improved from baseline ≥ 15 in letter score at month 12 compared to 16.9% at month 6. At month 12, 43% of patients in the two ranibizumab groups had a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/40 compared to 35% in the sham/0.5 mg group. In patients with BRVO, the mean number of ranibizumab injections during the observation period was 2.9, 2.8, and 3.8 in the 0.3 mg, 0.5 mg, and sham/0.5 mg groups; and the percentage of patients that did not receive any injections during the observation period was 17.2, 20.0, and 6.5, respectively [57]. At month 12 in the ranibizumab groups, the improvement from baseline in ETDRS letter score was 16.4 (0.3 mg) and 18.3 (0.5 mg), very similar to the month 6 results, indicating that vision is well maintained when injections are given only if there is recurrent or residual macular oedema. Patients in the sham group showed substantial improvement during the observation period when they were able to receive ranibizumab; improvement from baseline in letter score was 7.3 at month 6 and 12.1 at month 12. The percentage of patients who had an improvement from baseline BCVA letter score ≥ 15 at month 12 was 55.2% (0.3 mg) and 61.1% (0.5 mg) in the ranibizumab groups, almost identical to the month 6 results. In the sham group, 43.9% of patients improved from baseline ≥ 15 in letter score at month 12 compared to 28.8% at month 6. At month 12, 67.9% (0.3 mg) and 64.4% (0.5 mg) of patients in the ranibizumab groups had a Snellen equivalent BCVA of 20/40 compared to 56.8% in the sham/0.5 mg group. Thus, in both CRUISE and BRAVO, patients in the sham groups showed a substantial improvement in vision during the second 6 months when they were able to receive ranibizumab as needed, but their vision at month 12 was not as good as that in patients in the ranibizumab groups. For patients who entered the open-label extension study (HORIZON), ranibizumab 0.5 mg was given at intervals of at least 30 days. 67% of patients from BRAVO and 60% of patients from CRUISE completed month 12 of HORIZON. The primary outcome for the HORIZON extension study was mean change from HORIZON baseline in BCVA score up to 24 months. The manufacturer presented results from the first 12 months. From the BRAVO trial baseline, patients receiving sham (plus ranibizumab) and those receiving 0.5 mg ranibizumab had mean gains in BCVA score of 15.6 letters and 17.5 letters, respectively. From the CRUISE trial baseline, patients receiving sham (plus ranibizumab) and those receiving 0.5 mg ranibizumab had mean gains in BCVA score of 7.6 and 12.0 letters, respectively (no confidence intervals reported). Adverse events were reported at 6 months and 12 months in both BRAVO and CRUISE trials and for a further 12 months’ follow-up in the HORIZON extension study. In BRAVO, at 6 months there were 7 ocular adverse events (5.4%) in the ranibizumab group compared with 17 (13%) in the sham group, excluding occurrences of raised intraocular pressure. Nonocular serious adverse events (potentially related to vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] inhibition) at 6 months were higher in the ranibizumab group (5 events [3.8%]) than in the sham group (1 event [0.8%]). In CRUISE, at 6 months there were 13 ocular adverse events (10.1%) in the ranibizumab group compared with 25 (19.4%) in the sham group, excluding occurrences of raised intraocular pressure. In CRUISE, nonocular serious adverse events (potentially related to VEGF inhibition) were similar in both the ranibizumab and sham groups (3 [2.3%] and 2 [1.6%], resp.). The most common adverse event reported in BRAVO and CRUISE at 12 months was cataract, with 8 (6.2%) and 9 (7%) instances associated with ranibizumab treatment, respectively; in the sham (plus ranibizumab) group, 3 (2.6%) and 2 (1.8%) instances of cataract were reported for the treatment period of 6 to 12 months. Instances of raised intraocular pressure were reported in both BRAVO and CRUISE at 6 months but were academic in confidence and therefore not reported here. In the HORIZON extension study, the incidence of any adverse event in the sham (plus ranibizumab) and ranibizumab groups was 2.2% and 5.8%, respectively, for the patients (with BRVO) recruited from BRAVO and 5.2% and 3%, respectively, for the patients (with CRVO) recruited from CRUISE. In February 2014 NICE recommended aflibercept (Eylea, Bayer) as a possible treatment for people with sight problems caused by macular oedema from central retinal vein occlusion. Aflibercept for CRVO was studied in particular in the COPERNICUS and GALILEO trials, both phase III clinical trials for CRVO-related macular oedema [58]. COPERNICUS (vascular endothelial growth factor trap-eye for macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion) was a randomised, double-blind, multicentre trial conducted in 6 non-European countries. GALILEO was a randomised, double-blind, multicentre trial conducted in 10 European and Asian-Pacific countries. In both trials the included patients had been diagnosed less than 9 months before the start of the trial and they had not received previous treatment for CRVO. The trials had identical designs and criteria for the first 6 months: both were randomized, multicentre, and double-masked, and both included patients with central retinal thickness (CRT) of ≥250 μm and BCVA of 20/40 and 20/320. From week 0 to week 24, patients in the intervention group received intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI) every 4 weeks and patients in the comparator group received a sham injection every 4 weeks. The primary end point was the proportion of those patients who gained three or more lines, and the key secondary end points were total change in BCVA and CRT. The primary end points were assessed at 6 months and demonstrated that 23.3% of the sham-treated patients and 49.1% of the IAI patients in COPERNICUS, with 15 and 62% of respective patients in GALILEO, experienced a gain of three lines or more. Mean change in VA for COPERNICUS at 6 months was four letters for the sham-treated group and +17.3 letters for the IAI-treated group. Mean change in VA for GALILEO at 6 months was +3.3 letters for the sham-treated group and +18.0 letters for the IAI-treated group. In addition, at 6 months, the proportion of patients for COPERNICUS without retinal edema was 15.3% in the sham-treated eyes and 74.5% in the IAI-treated eyes. These studies also demonstrated a rapid response in visual and anatomical outcome that was more significant if treated within 2 months of the diagnosis. Early treatment with IAI results in better visual and anatomical results than delaying treatment, and these results were regardless of perfusion status of the retina at the time of treatment. The COPERNICUS trial was extended to 100 weeks and allowed all patients to then be eligible for IAI 2q4 pro re nata (PRN) treatment protocol [59]. The GALILEO trial was to be extended to 76 weeks had the IAI group become the IAI 2q4 PRN group, but the sham-treatment group continued to be treated with sham until 52 weeks. After 52 weeks, the sham group was able to be treated with IAI 2q4 PRN. The retreatment criteria were an increase in CRT of >50 μm from the lowest previous measurement; new or persistent cystic retinal changes or subretinal fluid or diffuse edema ≥ 250 μm in the central subfield; a loss of ≥five letters from previous BCVA if associated with any increase in CRT; or a loss of ≥five letters between the current and most recent visit. Between 6 months and 1 year, for the COPERNICUS trial, the injection group received additional 2.7 injections while the sham/crossover group received 3.9 injections. For GALILEO, the final 6 months received an additional 2.5 injections. COPERNICUS results at 100 weeks demonstrated sustained improvements in all parameters for the treatment group when converting to PRN treatment at 6 months and an additional improvement for sham treatment that was converted to PRN treatment at 6 months. Aflibercept was effective at reducing edema and improving vision, even when a delay in treatment takes place but outlines the likely irreversible visual damage that limits the visual recovery when treatment is delayed. 5. Myopic Choroidal Neovascularisation Myopia is a common and multifactorial condition that affects 20–40% of the global population [60]. High myopia is classified as greater than −6 dioptres refractive error and commonly associated with an axial length of more than 26 mm [61–63]. It has a global prevalence of 0.5–5% [62]. Systemic associations of high myopia include prematurity and syndromes such as Down, Ehlers-Danlos, Knobloch, Marfan, Noonan, Pierre-Robin, and Stickler syndrome [61, 64]. Pathological myopia, also called degenerative myopia, is characterised by excessive elongation of the globe and associated pathological changes at the posterior pole such as tessellated fundus, posterior staphyloma, and myopic conus [60–62, 64]. It has a prevalence of 0.9–3.1% and studies have identified it as the primary cause for blindness in 7% and 12–27% of the population in Europe and Asia, respectively [60, 65]. Choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) is one of the complications of pathological myopia and occurs in 5.2–11.3% of patients with high myopia [60–63]. Clinically, myopic CNV may be associated with underlying myopic abnormalities such as focal chorioretinal atrophy or ruptures in the RPE-Bruch’s membrane-choriocapillaris complex, also called “lacquer cracks” [61, 64]. Patients typically present with deteriorating visual acuity, central scotoma, or metamorphopsia [66]. Myopic CNV is characterised by the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina or under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), potentially penetrating Bruch’s membrane into the subretinal space [60]. On slit-lamp biomicroscopy, a flat greyish membrane is observed, occasionally with a hyperpigmented border if chronic or recurrent [66]. As the CNV regresses, it leaves a fibrous pigmented scar called Fuchs’ or Forster-Fuchs’ spot as well as surrounding chorioretinal atrophy in later stages [66]. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) is used in diagnosis in the acute stage, showing a “classic” CNV pattern. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used in monitoring. Myopic CNV lights up as a highly reflective area above the RPE, occasionally with minimal subretinal fluid [66]. The pathogenesis of myopic CNV is not yet fully understood but is thought to involve an imbalance of proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors brought on by the mechanical stresses of a progressively elongating retina [66]. Genetic studies have also shown possible association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the complement factor I (CFI) gene on chromosome 4 that encodes a protein involved in the alternative complement pathway [62, 66]. Alternatively, myopic CNV may occur de novo in patients with no previous signs of pathological myopia. Of note, in patients with preexisting myopic CNV, one study showed that 35% of fellow eyes go on to develop CNV within 8 years [63, 66]. Visual prognosis in myopic CNV is varied. Poor prognostic indicators include lower baseline visual acuity, age above 40 years, extensive chorioretinal atrophy, subfoveal location of the CNV, and lesion size above 400 μm [60, 61, 63, 66]. Prior to the advent of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy, management of myopic CNV was largely based on laser photocoagulation for extrafoveal CNV and verteporfin photodynamic therapy for subfoveal CNV [61, 63, 66]. Neither has been able to show any consistent long-term visual benefit but anti-VEGF agents have recently been introduced with promising results [66]. Ranibizumab (Lucentis) is the only anti-VEGF therapy licensed for the treatment of myopic CNV and has shown great potential for visual gain and preventing irreversible retinal damage in phases II and III clinical trials REPAIR and RADIANCE (a randomized controlled study of ranibizumab in patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathologic myopia), respectively [4, 66]. Bevacizumab (Avastin) has not been approved for intraocular use and therefore lacks both an established safety and efficacy profile. MYRROR, a phase III clinical trial, is currently ongoing to establish the role of aflibercept (Eylea) in the treatment of myopic CNV [66]. Based on the REPAIR and RADIANCE trials, Wong et al. have presented an anti-VEGF treatment algorithm for myopic CNV [66]. This algorithm involves a single initial intravitreal injection of an anti-VEGF agent, followed by subsequent “as needed” injections [66]. Follow-up is advised as monthly for two months and then 3-monthly in the first year [66]. At follow-up, symptoms and signs that warrant another anti-VEGF injection include reduced visual acuity, visual symptoms (e.g., metamorphopsia), or signs of disease activity on FFA or OCT [66]. Following the first year of monitoring, follow-up will be decided upon after discussion between the treating ophthalmologist and patient [66]. Further research and monitoring are yet to establish long-term outcomes and best management strategy. 6. Other Anti-VEGF Indications Since their introduction into clinical practice, the list of possible uses for anti-VEGF therapy in ophthalmology has steadily expanded. Anti-VEGF agents have been utilized on an off-license basis for a vast array of other ocular pathologies ranging from external eye disease to ocular oncology and glaucoma. Indeed, a literature search in 2008 revealed 51 different ophthalmic diseases that had been treated with bevacizumab [67]. 6.1. Anti-VEGF for Non-ARMD Associated CNV The development of choroidal neovascular membranes may complicate any disease process which results in a defect in Bruch’s membrane and can pose a threat to vision through leakage of fluid, haemorrhage, and subretinal fibrosis. Anti-VEGF agents are now widely used in the treatment of CNVM regardless of aetiology. In November 2013, NICE approved ranibizumab for the treatment of choroidal neovascularisation associated with pathological myopia in the UK. This decision was based upon evidence largely extracted from the RADIANCE (randomized controlled study of ranibizumab in patients with choroidal neovascularisation secondary to pathologic myopia) trial which compared ranibizumab with verteporfin photodynamic therapy (vPDT). This study showed superiority of ranibizumab over vPDT in terms of improvements in BCVA at month three, with improvements being sustained up to month twelve through further injections as required based on visual acuity or disease activity criteria [65, 68]. Other studies have shown a similar efficacy of ranibizumab and bevacizumab in the treatment of myopic CNV [69, 70]. Intravitreal anti-VEGF agents have also been successfully utilized in the treatment of CNV related to angioid streaks, uveitis, and trauma [71–73]. 6.2. Anti-VEGF for Vascular Proliferative Retinal Diseases Intravitreal injection of an anti-VEGF agent is now commonly performed as a pretreatment prior to pars plana vitrectomy for severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Several studies have demonstrated that a single dose of bevacizumab delivered in the weeks before surgery facilitates the dissection of fibrovascular membranes and reduces the likelihood of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding [74, 75]. Development or progression of tractional retinal detachment has however been reported following intravitreal injection of bevacizumab as an adjunct to pars plana vitrectomy which may be attributable to the contraction of fibrovascular membranes induced by the drug [76]. Regression and a decrease in vascular permeability of new vessels in uncomplicated proliferative diabetic retinopathy have also been demonstrated following the intravitreal injection of bevacizumab [77]. Reduction in the drive for VEGF production through pan-retinal laser photocoagulation however remains the first line treatment in the UK although anti-VEGF may have a role as an adjunctive therapy, particularly in cases of persistent vitreous haemorrhage [78, 79]. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in its most severe form results in tractional retinal detachment secondary to fibrovascular proliferation and remains a leading cause of childhood blindness across the world. There has been much interest recently in the use of anti-VEGF agents to reduce the angiogenic drive that underlies the pathology of ROP. In their prospective randomized trial comparing intravitreal bevacizumab with conventional laser photocoagulation therapy, Mintz-Hittner et al. reported on behalf of the BEAT-ROP Cooperative Group a significant benefit of anti-VEGF in the treatment of stage 3+ zone 1 disease [80]. They also found that the development of peripheral retinal vessels continued after bevacizumab but not after laser therapy which may have a beneficial effect on conservation of visual field. Although relatively large, the BEAT-ROP study was not adequately powered to determine the safety of anti-VEGF in the developing child and some concerns remain regarding the potentially unknown long-term local and systemic side effects of these medications. 6.3. Anti-VEGF for Central Serous Retinopathy Central serous retinopathy (CSR) is an idiopathic condition characterized by the accumulation of subretinal fluid at the macula. Although the majority of cases resolve spontaneously within six months, in some the fluid persists which can result in ongoing reduction in visual acuity and metamorphopsia. Intravitreal bevacizumab has been advocated by some as a possible treatment option in such cases of persistent CSR. Several small case series have reported significant reductions in central macular thickness and improvements in visual acuity in CSR patients treated with intravitreal bevacizumab [81, 82]. 6.4. Anti-VEGF for Ocular Tumours Anti-VEGF therapy is also being utilized in ocular oncology. Regression of choroidal metastases has been reported following treatment with both systemic and intravitreal bevacizumab [83–85]. Intravitreal bevacizumab has also been used by Mason III et al. in the treatment of radiation-induced macular oedema which may arise as a complication of plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma [86]. Although a reduction in central retinal thickness was demonstrated amongst these patients, the effect was short-lived and associated with only marginal improvements in visual acuity. Intravitreal bevacizumab does not seem to halt the progression of choroidal melanoma in patients who have inadvertently received this drug on account of an initial misdiagnosis of CNVM [87]. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this paper. M. Rajappa, P. Saxena, and J. Kaur, “Ocular angiogenesis: mechanisms and recent advances in therapy,” Advances in Clinical Chemistry, vol. 50, pp. 103–121, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus PMLive, “Top Pharma list,” November 2014, http://www.pmlive.com/top_pharma_list/Top_50_pharmaceutical_products_by_global_sales. J. G. Arroyo, “Towards a rational approach to combination therapy for neovascular age related macular degeneration,” The British Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 91, no. 2, pp. 130–131, 2007. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. W. Miller, A. P. Adamis, D. T. Shima et al., “Vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular permeability factor is temporally and spatially correlated with ocular angiogenesis in a primate model,” American Journal of Pathology, vol. 145, no. 3, pp. 574–584, 1994. View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus L. P. Aiello, R. L. Avery, P. G. Arrigg et al., “Vascular endothelial growth factor in ocular fluid of patients with diabetic retinopathy and other retinal disorders,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 331, no. 22, pp. 1480–1487, 1994. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. S. Gordon, K. Margolin, M. Talpaz et al., “Phase I safety and pharmacokinetic study of recombinant human anti-vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with advanced cancer,” Journal of Clinical Oncology, vol. 19, no. 3, pp. 843–850, 2001. View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus E. S. Gragoudas, A. P. Adamis, E. T. Cunningham Jr., M. Feinsod, and D. R. Guyer, “Pegaptanib for neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 351, no. 27, pp. 2805–2816, 2004. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus A. J. Augustin, “Change of treatment paradigms for wet age-related macular degeneration,” Clinical & Experimental Immunology, vol. 121, pp. 458–465, 2000. View at Google Scholar P. J. Rosenfeld, A. A. Moshfeghi, and C. A. Puliafito, “Optical coherence tomography findings after an intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin) for neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” Ophthalmic Surgery Lasers and Imaging, vol. 36, no. 4, pp. 331–335, 2005. View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus P. J. Rosenfeld, D. M. Brown, J. S. Heier et al., “Ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 355, no. 14, pp. 1419–1431, 2006. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. M. Brown, P. K. Kaiser, M. Michels et al., “Ranibizumab versus verteporfin for neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 355, no. 14, pp. 1432–1444, 2006. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. W. Stewart, P. J. Rosenfeld, F. M. Penha et al., “Pharmacokinetic rationale for dosing every 2 weeks versus 4 weeks with intravitreal ranibizumab, bevacizumab, and aflibercept (vascular endothelial growth factor Trap-eye),” Retina, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 434–457, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Blindness caused by diabetes—Massachusetts, 1987–1994,” The Journal of the American Medical Association, vol. 276, no. 23, pp. 1865–1866, 1996. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar E. Prokofyeva and E. Zrenner, “Epidemiology of major eye diseases leading to blindness in Europe: a literature review,” Ophthalmic Research, vol. 47, no. 4, pp. 171–188, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. A. Ford, N. Lois, P. Royle, C. Clar, D. Shyangdan, and N. Waugh, “Current treatments in diabetic macular oedema: systematic review and meta-analysis,” British Medical Journal Open, vol. 3, no. 2, Article ID e002269, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), “Ranibizumab for treating diabetic macular oedema (rapid review of technology appraisal guidance 237),” April 2013, http://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta274. P. Mitchell, F. Bandello, U. Schmidt-Erfurth et al., “The RESTORE study: ranibizumab monotherapy or combined with laser versus laser monotherapy for diabetic macular edema,” Ophthalmology, vol. 118, no. 4, pp. 615–625, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network, “Expanded 2-year follow-up of Ranibizumab plus prompt or deferred laser or Triamcinolone plus prompt laser for diabetic macular edema,” Ophthalmology, vol. 118, no. 4, pp. 609–614, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar P. Massin, F. Bandello, J. G. Garweg et al., “Safety and efficacy of ranibizumab in diabetic macular edema (RESOLVE study): a 12-month, randomized, controlled, double-masked, multicenter phase II study,” Diabetes Care, vol. 33, no. 11, pp. 2399–2405, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. V. Do, Q. D. Nguyen, A. A. Khwaja et al., “Ranibizumab for edema of the macula in diabetes study: 3-year outcomes and the need for prolonged frequent treatment,” JAMA Ophthalmology, vol. 131, no. 2, pp. 139–145, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. V. Do, J. S. Heier, S. M. Shah et al., “Two-year results of the READ 2 study: ranibizumab for edema of the macula in diabetes,” Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, vol. 51, no. 5, pp. 5842–5847, 2010. View at Google Scholar RISE and RIDE Research Group, “Ranibizumab for diabetic macular edema: results from 2 phase III randomized trials: RISE and RIDE,” Ophthalmology, vol. 119, no. 4, pp. 789–801, 2012. View at Google Scholar Decision Support Unit, “Bevacizumab in eye conditions: issues related to quality, use, efficacy and safety,” 2012, http://www.nicedsu.org.uk/Bevacizumab%20report%20-%20NICE%20published%20version%2011.04.13.pdf. R. Rajendram, S. Fraser-Bell, A. Kaines et al., “A 2-year prospective randomized controlled trial of intravitreal bevacizumab or laser therapy (BOLT) in the management of diabetic macular edema: 24-Month data: report 3,” Archives of Ophthalmology, vol. 130, no. 8, pp. 972–979, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. V. Do, Q. D. Nguyen, D. Boyer et al., “One-year outcomes of the da Vinci study of VEGF trap-eye in eyes with diabetic macular edema,” Ophthalmology, vol. 119, no. 8, pp. 1658–1665, 2012. View at Google Scholar J.-F. Korobelnik, D. V. Do, U. Schmidt-Erfurth et al., “Intravitreal aflibercept for diabetic macular edema,” Ophthalmology, vol. 121, no. 11, pp. 2247–2254, 2014. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus The Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network, “Aflibercept, bevacizumab, or ranibizumab for diabetic macular edema,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 372, pp. 1193–1203, 2015. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), “Fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant for treating chronic diabetic macular oedema after an inadequate response to prior therapy (rapid review of technology appraisal guidance 271),” 2013, http://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta301/. G. Virgili, M. Parravano, F. Menchini, and J. R. Evans, “Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor for diabetic macular oedema,” The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, vol. 10, 2014. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar S. Goyal, M. Lavalley, and M. L. Subramanian, “Meta-analysis and review on the effect of bevacizumab in diabetic macular edema,” Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, vol. 249, no. 1, pp. 15–27, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus Royal College of Ophthalmology, “Diabetic Retinopathy Guidelines,” July 2013, https://www.rcophth.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/2013-SCI-301-FINAL-DR-GUIDELINES-DEC-2012-updated-July-2013.pdf. Q. T. Ho and C. J. Kuo, “Vascular endothelial growth factor: biology and therapeutic applications,” The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, vol. 39, no. 7-8, pp. 1349–1357, 2007. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. M. Brown, M. Michels, P. K. Kaiser, J. S. Heier, J. P. Sy, and T. Ianchulev, “Ranibizumab versus verteporfin photodynamic therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: two-year results of the ANCHOR Study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 116, no. 1, pp. 57.e5–65.e5, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus P. Abraham, H. Yue, and L. Wilson, “Randomized, double-masked, sham-controlled trial of ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: PIER study year 2,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 150, no. 3, pp. 315.e1–324.e1, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus U. Schmidt-Erfurth, B. Eldem, R. Guymer et al., “Efficacy and safety of monthly versus quarterly ranibizumab treatment in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: the EXCITE Study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 118, no. 5, pp. 831–839, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus G. A. Lalwani, P. J. Rosenfeld, A. E. Fung et al., “A variable-dosing regimen with intravitreal ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: year 2 of the PrONTO Study,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 148, no. 1, pp. 43–58.e1, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus F. G. Holz, W. Amoaku, J. Donate et al., “Safety and efficacy of a flexible dosing regimen of ranibizumab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: the SUSTAIN study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 118, no. 4, pp. 663–671, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus B. G. Busbee, A. C. Ho, D. M. Brown et al., “Twelve-month efficacy and safety of 0.5 mg or 2.0 mg ranibizumab in patients with subfoveal neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” Ophthalmology, vol. 120, no. 5, pp. 1046–1056, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Engelbert, S. A. Zweifel, and K. B. Freund, “Long-term follow-up for type 1 (subretinal pigment epithelium) neovascularization using a modified ‘treat and extend’ dosing regimen of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy,” Retina, vol. 30, no. 9, pp. 1368–1375, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Engelbert, S. A. Zweifel, and K. B. Freund, “‘treat and extend’ dosing of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy for type 3 neovascularization/retinal angiomatous proliferation,” Retina, vol. 29, no. 10, pp. 1424–1431, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. F. Martin, M. G. Maguire, G. S. Ying, J. E. Grunwald, S. L. Fine, and G. J. Jaffe, “Ranibizumab and bevacizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 364, no. 20, pp. 1897–1908, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar U. Chakravarthy, S. P. Harding, C. A. Rogers et al., “Alternative treatments to inhibit VEGF in age-related choroidal neovascularisation: 2-year findings of the IVAN randomised controlled trial,” The Lancet, vol. 382, no. 9900, pp. 1258–1267, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus U. Schmidt-Erfurth, P. K. Kaiser, J.-F. Korobelnik et al., “Intravitreal aflibercept injection for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: ninety-six-week results of the VIEW studies,” Ophthalmology, vol. 121, no. 1, pp. 193–201, 2014. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. S. Heier, D. M. Brown, V. Chong et al., “Intravitreal aflibercept (VEGF trap-eye) in wet age-related macular degeneration,” Ophthalmology, vol. 119, pp. 2537–2548, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar M. J. Tolentino, A. Dennrick, E. John, and M. S. Tolentino, “Drugs in phase II clinical trials for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration,” Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs, vol. 24, no. 2, pp. 183–199, 2015. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus P. U. Dugel, “Phase 2b clinical trial of Fovista anti-PDGF therapy (1.5 mg) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (wet AMO),” in Proceedings of the Retina Subspecialty Day at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting, American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), November 2012. D. H. Orth and A. Patz, “Retinal branch vein occlusion,” Survey of Ophthalmology, vol. 22, no. 6, pp. 357–376, 1978. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar The Branch Vein Occlusion Study Group, “Argon laser photocoagulation for macular edema in branch vein occlusion,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 98, no. 3, pp. 271–282, 1984. View at Google Scholar G. Coscas, A. Loewenstein, A. Augustin et al., “Management of retinal vein occlusion—consensus document,” Ophthalmologica, vol. 226, no. 1, pp. 4–28, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Laouri, E. Chen, M. Looman, and M. Gallagher, “The burden of disease of retinal vein occlusion: review of the literature,” Eye, vol. 25, no. 8, pp. 981–988, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J.-D. Ho, C.-Y. Tsai, S.-W. Liou, R. J.-F. Tsai, and H.-C. Lin, “Seasonal variations in the occurrence of retinal vein occlusion: a five-year nationwide population-based study from Taiwan,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 145, no. 4, pp. 722.3–728.e3, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus R. Klein, S. E. Moss, S. M. Meuer, and B. E. K. Klein, “The 15-year cumulative incidence of retinal vein occlusion: the Beaver Dam Eye Study,” Archives of Ophthalmology, vol. 126, no. 4, pp. 513–518, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. Rehak and M. Rehak, “Branch retinal vein occlusion: pathogenesis, visual prognosis, and treatment modalities,” Current Eye Research, vol. 33, no. 2, pp. 111–131, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. G. Haymore and L. J. Mejico, “Retinal vascular occlusion syndromes,” International Ophthalmology Clinics, vol. 49, no. 3, pp. 63–79, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus C. Kaur, W. S. Foulds, and E. A. Ling, “Blood-retinal barrier in hypoxic ischaemic conditions: basic concepts, clinical features and management,” Progress in Retinal and Eye Research, vol. 27, no. 6, pp. 622–647, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. M. Brown, P. A. Campochiaro, R. B. Bhisitkul et al., “Sustained benefits from ranibizumab for macular edema following branch retinal vein occlusion: 12-month outcomes of a phase III study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 118, no. 8, pp. 1594–1602, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. M. Brown, P. A. Campochiaro, R. P. Singh et al., “Ranibizumab for macular edema following central retinal vein occlusion: six month primary end point results of a phase III study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 117, no. 6, pp. 1124–1133, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. Boyer, J. Heier, D. M. Brown et al., “Vascular endothelial growth factor Trap-Eye for macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion: Six-month results of the phase 3 COPERNICUS Study,” Ophthalmology, vol. 119, no. 5, pp. 1024–1032, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. M. Brown, “Intravitreal aflibercept injection of central retinal vein occlusions: 2-year results from the COPERNICUS Study,” American Academy of Ophthalmology, vol. 155, no. 3, pp. 429–437, 2012. View at Google Scholar T. Y. Wong, A. Ferreira, R. Hughes, G. Carter, and P. Mitchell, “Epidemiology and disease burden of pathologic myopia and myopic choroidal neovascularization: an evidence-based systematic review,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 157, no. 1, pp. 9.e12–25.e12, 2014. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. Kanski, Clinical Ophthalmology: A Systematic Approach, Butterworth-Heinemann, 7th edition, 2011. N. Leveziel, Y. Yu, R. Reynolds et al., “Genetic factors for choroidal neovascularization associated with high myopia,” Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, vol. 53, no. 8, pp. 5004–5009, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus D. Mitry and H. Zambarakji, “Recent trends in the management of maculopathy secondary to pathological myopia,” Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, vol. 250, no. 1, pp. 3–13, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus R. Silva, “Myopic maculopathy: a review,” Ophthalmologica, vol. 228, no. 4, pp. 197–213, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus H. M. Kang and H. J. Koh, “Ocular risk factors for recurrence of myopic choroidal neovascularization: long-term follow-up study,” Retina, vol. 33, no. 8, pp. 1613–1622, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus T. Y. Wong, K. Ohno-Matsui, N. Leveziel et al., “Myopic choroidal neovascularisation: current concepts and update on clinical management,” British Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 99, no. 3, pp. 289–296, 2015. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar J. B. Gunther and M. M. Altaweel, “Bevacizumab (avastin) for the treatment of ocular disease,” Survey of Ophthalmology, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 372–400, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar S. Wolf, V. J. Balciuniene, G. Laganovska et al., “RADIANCE: a randomized controlled study of ranibizumab in patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathologic myopia,” Ophthalmology, vol. 121, no. 3, pp. 682–692, 2014. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Gharbiya, R. Giustolisi, F. Allievi et al., “Choroidal neovascularization in pathologic myopia: intravitreal ranibizumab versus bevacizumab-a randomized controlled trial,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 149, no. 3, pp. 458–464, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus T. Y. Y. Lai, F. O. J. Luk, G. K. Y. Lee, and D. S. C. Lam, “Long-term outcome of intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy with bevacizumab or ranibizumab as primary treatment for subfoveal myopic choroidal neovascularization,” Eye, vol. 26, no. 7, pp. 1004–1011, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Gliem, R. P. Finger, R. Fimmers, C. K. Brinkmann, F. G. Holz, and P. Charbel Issa, “Treatment of choroidal neovascularization due to angioid streaks: a comprehensive review,” Retina, vol. 33, no. 7, pp. 1300–1314, 2013. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus K. Julián, C. Terrada, C. Fardeau et al., “Intravitreal bevacizumab as first local treatment for uveitis-related choroidal neovascularization: long-term results,” Acta Ophthalmologica, vol. 89, no. 2, pp. 179–184, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus U. De Benedetto, M. Battaglia Parodi, K. A. Knutsson et al., “Intravitreal bevacizumab for extrafoveal choroidal neovascularization after ocular trauma,” Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, vol. 28, no. 5, pp. 550–552, 2012. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus S. Rizzo, F. Genovesi-Ebert, E. Bartolo, A. Vento, S. Miniaci, and G. Williams, “Injection of intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) as a preoperative adjunct before vitrectomy surgery in the treatment of severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR),” Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, vol. 246, no. 6, pp. 837–842, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus M. Modarres, H. Nazari, K. G. Falavarjani, M. Naseripour, M. Hashemi, and M. M. Parvaresh, “Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab before vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy,” European Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 19, no. 5, pp. 848–852, 2009. View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. F. Arevalo, M. Maia, H. W. Flynn Jr. et al., “Tractional retinal detachment following intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) in patients with severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy,” British Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 92, no. 2, pp. 213–216, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. O. Mason III, P. A. Nixon, and M. F. White, “Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin) as adjunctive treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 142, no. 4, pp. 685–688, 2006. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus A. M. Minnella, C. M. Savastano, L. Ziccardi et al., “Intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) in proliferative diabetic retinopathy,” Acta Ophthalmologica, vol. 86, no. 6, pp. 683–687, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus S. Moradian, H. Ahmadieh, M. Malihi, M. Soheilian, M. H. Dehghan, and M. Azarmina, “Intravitreal bevacizumab in active progressive proliferative diabetic retinopathy,” Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, vol. 246, no. 12, pp. 1699–1705, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus H. A. Mintz-Hittner, K. A. Kennedy, and A. Z. Chuang, “Efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab for stage 3+ retinopathy of prematurity,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 364, no. 7, pp. 603–615, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus S. J. Lim, M. I. Roh, and O. W. Kwon, “Intravitreal bevacizumab injection for central serous chorioretinopathy,” Retina, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 100–106, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus H. K. Seong, J. H. Bae, E. S. Kim, J. R. Han, W. H. Nam, and H. K. Kim, “Intravitreal bevacizumab to treat acute central serous chorioretinopathy: Short-term effect,” Ophthalmologica, vol. 223, no. 5, pp. 343–347, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus B. George, W. J. Wirostko, T. B. Connor, and N. W. Choong, “Complete and durable response of choroid metastasis from non-small cell lung cancer with systemic bevacizumab and chemotherapy,” Journal of Thoracic Oncology, vol. 4, no. 5, pp. 661–662, 2009. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus I. C. Kuo, J. A. Haller, R. Maffrand, R. H. Sambuelli, and V. E. Reviglio, “Regression of a subfoveal choroidal metastasis of colorectal carcinoma after intravitreous bevacizumab treatment,” JAMA Ophthalmology, vol. 126, no. 9, pp. 1311–1313, 2008. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus H.-Y. Yao, C.-T. Horng, J.-T. Chen, and M.-L. Tsai, “Regression of choroidal metastasis secondary to breast carcinoma with adjuvant intravitreal injection of bevacizumab,” Acta Ophthalmologica, vol. 88, no. 7, pp. e282–e283, 2010. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus J. O. Mason III, M. A. Albert Jr., T. O. Persaud, and R. S. Vail, “Intravitreal bevacizumab treatment for radiation macular edema after plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma,” Retina, vol. 27, no. 7, pp. 903–907, 2007. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus B. R. Lima, L. R. Schoenfield, and A. D. Singh, “The impact of intravitreal bevacizumab therapy on choroidal melanoma,” American Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 151, no. 2, pp. 323.e2–328.e2, 2011. View at Publisher · View at Google Scholar · View at Scopus	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1339
__label__cc	0.630673	0.369327	Get Free Auto Insurance Quotes Get Car Insurance Quotes Connecticut Auto Insurance Quotes Connecticut state law requires that you have liability insurance on all vehicles with active registration you own in the state. This law states that all vehicles must have auto insurance that meets minimum requirements: $20,000 for injury/death to one person. $40,000 for injury/death to more than one person. $10,000 for property damages. Connecticut insurance law requires all insurers in the state to report their records of known uninsured vehicles to the state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). When your insurance policy is canceled, the insurer notifies the DMV. If you are caught without a valid insurance policy, you will be given a warning by the DMV. This warning states that in order to keep your license and registration, you must enter into a consent agreement, obtain a new insurance policy, and pay a fine. Sample of Annual Connecticut Auto Insurance Rates Greenwich Auto Insurance Greenwich is a New York City suburb. It has a population of more than 62,000 people. Greenwich is named after the London community of the same name. From Greenwich, Interstate 95 connects with New York City to the south, and Boston to the north. U.S. Route 1 runs parallel to Interstate 95 all the way up to Maine. Connecticut State Route 15 runs northeast toward Bridgeport. Interstate 684 runs north toward Danbury. City Single Married Low High Low High Greenwich $1,075.00 $3,206.00 $1,181.00 $3,365.00 New Milford Auto Insurance New Milford is a suburb of Danbury in southern New England, where it lies near the Connecticut-New York border. New Milford has a population of only about 28,000 people, but is considered Connecticut's largest city by land area. U.S. Route 7 runs north into Massachusetts, and connects with Danbury to the south. U.S. Route 202 loops northeast in the direction of Hartford. Just outside of town, Interstate 84 runs west toward Scranton, Penn., and northeast to the outskirts of Boston. New Milford $1,187.00 $3,030.00 $1,300.00 $3,180.00 Newtown Auto Insurance Newtown serves as a symbol of the gun control movement. It is the site of the horrific Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, which killed 20 students and six teachers. The town has a population of more than 28,000 people. Just outside of Newtown, Interstate 84 runs west toward Danbury, and northeast toward Boston. U.S. Route 6 runs parallel to Interstate 84 as it passes through Newtown. Connecticut State Route 25 south in the direction of Bridgeport. Newtown $1,090.00 $3,022.00 $1,198.00 $3,170.00 Stafford Auto Insurance Stafford is a suburb of both Hartford, Conn., and Springfield, Mass. It lies in northern Connecticut along the state's border with Massachusetts. This small town has a population of about 12,000 people. Just outside of Stafford, Interstate 84 runs southwest into Hartford, and northeast toward Worcester. Gulf Road turns into Massachusetts State Route 83 and runs into Springfield. Connecticut State Route 190 runs west, where it connects with Interstate 91. Stafford Springs $959.00 $2,819.00 $1,050.00 $2,960.00 Litchfield Auto Insurance Litchfield exudes New England charm. This small town lies on the western side of Connecticut near the state's border with New York, not too far from Bristol and Hartford. It has a population of more than 8,400 people. Connecticut State Route 8 runs north into Massachusetts, and south through Waterbury. U.S. Route 202 runs south to Danbury, and east near Hartford, before splitting north toward Springfield. Litchfield $1,055.00 $2,981.00 $1,154.00 $3,120.00 East Haddam Auto Insurance East Haddam is situated in central Connecticut, halfway between Hartford and the Atlantic Ocean. The small town has a population of more than 9,100 people. It is home to Gillette Castle State Park. Just outside of East Haddam, Interstate 95 runs northeast through Boston, and southwest toward New York City. Connecticut State Route 9 runs north to Middletown. Connecticut State Route 2 runs north toward Hartford. East Haddam $923.00 $2,876.00 $1,007.00 $3,010.00 North Stonington Auto Insurance North Stonington has a population of nearly 5,300 people. The town straddles Connecticut's Rhode Island border, and is next door to Stonington. It is near the Atlantic Ocean. From North Stonington, Interstate 95 runs northeast toward Boston, and southwest through New York City and Washington, D.C. Connecticut State Route 2 runs northwest into Hartford. Just outside of town, Interstate 395 runs north toward Worcester. North Stonington $946.00 $2,731.00 $1,032.00 $2,866.00 Stamford Auto Insurance Stamford is a suburb of New York City. It is the third-largest city in Connecticut with a population of more than 128,000 people. World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Starwood Hotels and Resorts are both headquartered in Stamford. From Stamford, Interstate 95 runs south through New York City, and north all the way to Maine. U.S. Route 1 runs parallel to Interstate 95. Connecticut State Route 15 runs northeast past Bridgeport and New Haven in the direction of Hartford. The same road becomes the Hutchinson River Parkway to the south, traveling toward Yonkers. Stamford $1,186.00 $3,390.00 $1,307.00 $3,552.00 Stonington Auto Insurance Stonington has a population of more than 18,000 people. It is situated along the Atlantic Ocean. Stonington border's both Rhode Island and New York's Long Island. Interstate 95 connects Stonington with Boston to the northeast, and New York City to the southwest. U.S. Route 1 follows the same path and it cuts through Stonington. Stonington $974.00 $2,731.00 $1,069.00 $2,866.00 Killingly Auto Insurance Killingly has a population of more than 17,000 people. It is situated near Connecticut's border with Rhode Island, not too far from Providence. The town boats a number of sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Interstate 395 runs north toward Worcester, and south toward the Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Route 6 runs east into Rhode Island in the direction of Providence, and west toward Hartford. East Killingly $1,059.00 $2,781.00 $1,156.00 $2,921.00 Amston $1,022.00 $2,980.00 $1,119.00 $3,131.00 Andover $1,022.00 $2,989.00 $1,119.00 $3,134.00 Ansonia $1,219.00 $3,175.00 $1,340.00 $3,327.00 Ashford $959.00 $2,781.00 $1,050.00 $2,921.00 Avon $1,104.00 $3,042.00 $1,133.00 $3,191.00 Baltic $978.00 $2,936.00 $1,068.00 $3,084.00 Bantam $1,055.00 $2,981.00 $1,154.00 $3,120.00 Barkhamsted $1,055.00 $2,919.00 $1,154.00 $3,066.00 Beacon Falls $1,126.00 $3,280.00 $1,238.00 $3,434.00 Berlin $1,041.00 $3,122.00 $1,144.00 $3,274.00 Bethany $1,300.00 $3,302.00 $1,432.00 $3,452.00 Bethel $1,085.00 $3,066.00 $1,189.00 $3,213.00 Bethlehem $1,114.00 $3,040.00 $1,218.00 $3,184.00 Bloomfield $1,326.00 $3,179.00 $1,428.00 $3,332.00 Bolton $955.00 $2,898.00 $1,045.00 $3,045.00 Bozrah $978.00 $2,906.00 $1,068.00 $3,043.00 Branford $1,110.00 $3,514.00 $1,220.00 $3,685.00 Bridgeport $1,597.00 $4,219.00 $1,753.00 $4,416.00 Bridgewater $1,114.00 $3,270.00 $1,218.00 $3,421.00 Bristol $1,249.00 $2,986.00 $1,267.00 $3,123.00 Broad Brook $1,041.00 $2,834.00 $1,144.00 $2,975.00 Brookfield $1,240.00 $3,073.00 $1,240.00 $3,221.00 Brooklyn $1,059.00 $2,770.00 $1,156.00 $2,908.00 Burlington $1,096.00 $3,100.00 $1,133.00 $3,245.00 Canaan $1,055.00 $3,094.00 $1,154.00 $3,241.00 Canterbury $978.00 $2,771.00 $1,068.00 $2,907.00 Canton $1,104.00 $2,906.00 $1,153.00 $3,048.00 Centerbrook $923.00 $2,908.00 $1,007.00 $3,051.00 Chaplin $978.00 $2,741.00 $1,068.00 $2,877.00 Cheshire $1,300.00 $3,052.00 $1,362.00 $3,202.00 Chester $923.00 $3,033.00 $1,007.00 $3,182.00 Clinton $1,038.00 $3,123.00 $1,137.00 $3,275.00 Cobalt $1,038.00 $3,123.00 $1,137.00 $3,275.00 Colchester $979.00 $3,010.00 $1,071.00 $3,157.00 Colebrook $1,055.00 $2,919.00 $1,154.00 $3,066.00 Columbia $955.00 $2,977.00 $1,045.00 $3,123.00 Cornwall Bridge $1,114.00 $3,145.00 $1,210.00 $3,296.00 Cos Cob $1,075.00 $3,206.00 $1,181.00 $3,365.00 Coventry $955.00 $3,026.00 $1,045.00 $3,174.00 Cromwell $1,093.00 $3,233.00 $1,203.00 $3,390.00 Danbury $1,190.00 $3,187.00 $1,240.00 $3,341.00 Danielson $1,059.00 $2,781.00 $1,156.00 $2,921.00 Darien $1,012.00 $3,299.00 $1,111.00 $3,453.00 Dayville $1,059.00 $2,781.00 $1,156.00 $2,921.00 Deep River $923.00 $3,033.00 $1,007.00 $3,182.00 Derby $1,219.00 $3,296.00 $1,340.00 $3,450.00 Durham $1,038.00 $3,508.00 $1,137.00 $3,673.00 East Berlin $1,041.00 $3,122.00 $1,144.00 $3,274.00 East Canaan $1,055.00 $3,000.00 $1,154.00 $3,148.00 East Granby $1,041.00 $2,959.00 $1,144.00 $3,109.00 East Hampton $1,038.00 $3,294.00 $1,137.00 $3,456.00 East Hartford $1,321.00 $3,345.00 $1,457.00 $3,512.00 East Hartland $1,006.00 $2,928.00 $1,104.00 $3,073.00 East Haven $1,462.00 $3,706.00 $1,579.00 $3,870.00 East Lyme $952.00 $2,803.00 $1,042.00 $2,938.00 East Windsor $1,041.00 $2,834.00 $1,144.00 $2,975.00 Eastford $978.00 $2,720.00 $1,068.00 $2,856.00 Easton $1,090.00 $3,497.00 $1,198.00 $3,667.00 Ellington $1,046.00 $2,864.00 $1,154.00 $3,008.00 Enfield $1,045.00 $2,728.00 $1,145.00 $2,863.00 Essex $923.00 $2,908.00 $1,007.00 $3,051.00 Fairfield $1,102.00 $3,621.00 $1,211.00 $3,786.00 Falls Village $1,055.00 $3,094.00 $1,154.00 $3,241.00 Farmington $1,096.00 $2,926.00 $1,133.00 $3,070.00 Gales Ferry $946.00 $2,952.00 $1,032.00 $3,097.00 Gaylordsville $1,187.00 $3,030.00 $1,300.00 $3,180.00 Gilman $978.00 $2,906.00 $1,068.00 $3,043.00 Glastonbury $1,093.00 $2,898.00 $1,203.00 $3,041.00 Goshen $1,055.00 $2,956.00 $1,154.00 $3,103.00 Granby $1,006.00 $2,985.00 $1,104.00 $3,136.00 Groton $904.00 $2,764.00 $992.00 $2,902.00 Guilford $1,076.00 $3,425.00 $1,183.00 $3,586.00 Haddam $1,038.00 $3,073.00 $1,137.00 $3,226.00 Hamden $1,315.00 $3,686.00 $1,448.00 $3,855.00 Hampton $978.00 $2,771.00 $1,068.00 $2,907.00 Hartford $1,492.00 $4,328.00 $1,641.00 $4,535.00 Harwinton $1,055.00 $3,056.00 $1,154.00 $3,198.00 Hebron $1,022.00 $2,980.00 $1,119.00 $3,131.00 Higganum $1,038.00 $3,073.00 $1,137.00 $3,226.00 Ivoryton $923.00 $2,908.00 $1,007.00 $3,051.00 Jewett City $1,071.00 $2,951.00 $1,175.00 $3,098.00 Kent $1,114.00 $3,061.00 $1,218.00 $3,213.00 Killingworth $1,038.00 $3,147.00 $1,137.00 $3,305.00 Lakeside $1,114.00 $3,030.00 $1,218.00 $3,174.00 Lakeville $1,055.00 $3,003.00 $1,154.00 $3,143.00 Lebanon $1,022.00 $2,755.00 $1,119.00 $2,891.00 Ledyard $946.00 $2,952.00 $1,032.00 $3,097.00 Madison $1,044.00 $3,295.00 $1,146.00 $3,446.00 Manchester $1,012.00 $3,003.00 $1,114.00 $3,157.00 Mansfield Center $959.00 $2,871.00 $1,050.00 $3,016.00 Marion $1,120.00 $2,898.00 $1,233.00 $3,041.00 Marlborough $1,038.00 $2,980.00 $1,137.00 $3,131.00 Meriden $1,228.00 $3,230.00 $1,353.00 $3,380.00 Middle Haddam $1,038.00 $3,510.00 $1,137.00 $3,676.00 Middlebury $1,244.00 $3,352.00 $1,371.00 $3,506.00 Middlefield $1,038.00 $3,264.00 $1,137.00 $3,421.00 Middletown $1,123.00 $3,510.00 $1,190.00 $3,676.00 Milford $1,128.00 $3,445.00 $1,242.00 $3,606.00 Monroe $1,112.00 $3,264.00 $1,221.00 $3,421.00 Montville $993.00 $2,874.00 $1,089.00 $3,017.00 Moodus $923.00 $2,876.00 $1,007.00 $3,010.00 Moosup $946.00 $2,834.00 $1,032.00 $2,976.00 Morris $1,114.00 $3,030.00 $1,218.00 $3,174.00 Mystic $904.00 $2,764.00 $992.00 $2,902.00 Naugatuck $1,244.00 $3,581.00 $1,371.00 $3,751.00 New Britain $1,301.00 $3,393.00 $1,435.00 $3,544.00 New Canaan $1,000.00 $3,249.00 $1,097.00 $3,405.00 New Fairfield $1,074.00 $3,041.00 $1,175.00 $3,188.00 New Hartford $1,055.00 $2,824.00 $1,154.00 $2,965.00 New Haven $1,490.00 $3,789.00 $1,642.00 $3,967.00 New London $1,077.00 $3,019.00 $1,182.00 $3,167.00 New Preston $1,114.00 $3,124.00 $1,218.00 $3,274.00 Newington $1,041.00 $3,343.00 $1,144.00 $3,489.00 Niantic $952.00 $2,803.00 $1,042.00 $2,938.00 Norfolk $1,055.00 $2,878.00 $1,154.00 $3,023.00 North Branford $1,174.00 $3,412.00 $1,291.00 $3,572.00 North Franklin $978.00 $2,883.00 $1,068.00 $3,021.00 North Granby $1,006.00 $2,985.00 $1,104.00 $3,136.00 North Grosvenor Dale $1,059.00 $2,741.00 $1,156.00 $2,877.00 North Haven $1,249.00 $3,641.00 $1,377.00 $3,799.00 North Windham $1,022.00 $2,960.00 $1,119.00 $3,107.00 Northfield $1,055.00 $2,981.00 $1,154.00 $3,120.00 Northford $1,174.00 $3,412.00 $1,291.00 $3,572.00 Norwalk $1,073.00 $3,311.00 $1,179.00 $3,477.00 Norwich $1,071.00 $2,989.00 $1,175.00 $3,137.00 Oakdale $993.00 $2,874.00 $1,089.00 $3,017.00 Oakville $1,165.00 $3,282.00 $1,275.00 $3,432.00 Old Greenwich $1,075.00 $3,206.00 $1,181.00 $3,365.00 Old Lyme $952.00 $2,778.00 $1,042.00 $2,916.00 Old Saybrook $923.00 $2,893.00 $1,007.00 $3,035.00 Orange $1,128.00 $3,306.00 $1,242.00 $3,457.00 Oxford $1,126.00 $3,317.00 $1,238.00 $3,471.00 Pawcatuck $974.00 $2,731.00 $1,069.00 $2,866.00 Plainfield $946.00 $2,834.00 $1,032.00 $2,976.00 Plainville $1,120.00 $3,309.00 $1,233.00 $3,454.00 Plantsville $1,120.00 $3,112.00 $1,233.00 $3,251.00 Plymouth $1,165.00 $3,073.00 $1,275.00 $3,216.00 Pomfret Center $1,059.00 $2,720.00 $1,156.00 $2,854.00 Portland $1,038.00 $3,205.00 $1,137.00 $3,362.00 Preston $946.00 $2,940.00 $1,032.00 $3,086.00 Prospect $1,300.00 $3,560.00 $1,373.00 $3,727.00 Putnam $1,059.00 $2,761.00 $1,156.00 $2,899.00 Quaker Hill $993.00 $2,871.00 $1,089.00 $3,015.00 Quinebaug $1,059.00 $2,741.00 $1,156.00 $2,877.00 Redding $1,085.00 $3,219.00 $1,189.00 $3,376.00 Ridgefield $1,109.00 $3,223.00 $1,216.00 $3,380.00 Riverside $1,075.00 $3,206.00 $1,181.00 $3,365.00 Riverton $1,055.00 $2,919.00 $1,154.00 $3,066.00 Rockfall $1,038.00 $3,264.00 $1,137.00 $3,421.00 Rocky Hill $1,093.00 $3,175.00 $1,203.00 $3,327.00 Roxbury $1,114.00 $3,051.00 $1,218.00 $3,196.00 Salem $993.00 $2,892.00 $1,089.00 $3,029.00 Salisbury $1,055.00 $3,003.00 $1,154.00 $3,143.00 Sandy Hook $1,090.00 $3,022.00 $1,198.00 $3,170.00 Scotland $978.00 $2,816.00 $1,068.00 $2,955.00 Seymour $1,130.00 $3,266.00 $1,241.00 $3,419.00 Sharon $1,055.00 $3,000.00 $1,154.00 $3,148.00 Shelton $1,256.00 $3,327.00 $1,384.00 $3,490.00 Sherman $1,074.00 $2,908.00 $1,175.00 $3,051.00 Simsbury $1,104.00 $2,877.00 $1,153.00 $3,023.00 Somers $959.00 $2,779.00 $1,050.00 $2,917.00 South Glastonbury $1,093.00 $2,898.00 $1,203.00 $3,041.00 South Kent $1,114.00 $3,061.00 $1,218.00 $3,213.00 South Windham $1,022.00 $2,960.00 $1,119.00 $3,107.00 South Windsor $1,041.00 $3,000.00 $1,144.00 $3,147.00 Southbury $1,126.00 $3,359.00 $1,238.00 $3,515.00 Southington $1,120.00 $3,112.00 $1,233.00 $3,251.00 Southport $1,102.00 $3,621.00 $1,211.00 $3,786.00 Sterling $1,059.00 $2,733.00 $1,156.00 $2,868.00 Storrs Mansfield $959.00 $2,892.00 $1,050.00 $3,038.00 Stratford $1,293.00 $3,646.00 $1,424.00 $3,813.00 Suffield $1,006.00 $2,830.00 $1,104.00 $2,972.00 Taftville $1,071.00 $2,989.00 $1,175.00 $3,137.00 Tariffville $1,104.00 $2,877.00 $1,153.00 $3,023.00 Terryville $1,165.00 $3,073.00 $1,275.00 $3,216.00 Thomaston $1,165.00 $3,056.00 $1,275.00 $3,198.00 Thompson $1,059.00 $2,741.00 $1,156.00 $2,877.00 Tolland $959.00 $2,879.00 $1,050.00 $3,018.00 Torrington $1,084.00 $2,920.00 $1,187.00 $3,067.00 Trumbull $1,161.00 $3,635.00 $1,280.00 $3,798.00 Uncasville $993.00 $2,874.00 $1,089.00 $3,017.00 Unionville $1,096.00 $2,926.00 $1,133.00 $3,070.00 Vernon Rockville $1,046.00 $3,102.00 $1,154.00 $3,254.00 Voluntown $946.00 $2,828.00 $1,032.00 $2,968.00 Wallingford $1,174.00 $3,247.00 $1,291.00 $3,404.00 Washington $1,114.00 $3,124.00 $1,218.00 $3,274.00 Washington Depot $1,114.00 $3,124.00 $1,218.00 $3,274.00 Waterbury $1,545.00 $3,563.00 $1,690.00 $3,732.00 Waterford $993.00 $2,871.00 $1,089.00 $3,015.00 Watertown $1,165.00 $3,282.00 $1,275.00 $3,432.00 Weatogue $1,104.00 $2,877.00 $1,153.00 $3,023.00 West Cornwall $1,114.00 $3,145.00 $1,210.00 $3,296.00 West Granby $1,006.00 $2,985.00 $1,104.00 $3,136.00 West Hartford $1,123.00 $3,241.00 $1,236.00 $3,397.00 West Hartland $1,006.00 $2,973.00 $1,104.00 $3,125.00 West Haven $1,348.00 $3,601.00 $1,489.00 $3,771.00 West Simsbury $1,104.00 $2,877.00 $1,153.00 $3,023.00 West Suffield $1,006.00 $2,830.00 $1,104.00 $2,972.00 Westbrook $1,038.00 $2,952.00 $1,137.00 $3,094.00 Weston $1,109.00 $3,318.00 $1,216.00 $3,471.00 Westport $1,079.00 $3,376.00 $1,184.00 $3,540.00 Wethersfield $1,093.00 $3,180.00 $1,203.00 $3,333.00 Willimantic $1,022.00 $2,960.00 $1,119.00 $3,107.00 Willington $959.00 $2,819.00 $1,050.00 $2,960.00 Wilton $1,109.00 $3,215.00 $1,216.00 $3,376.00 Windham $1,022.00 $2,960.00 $1,119.00 $3,107.00 Windsor $1,132.00 $2,989.00 $1,244.00 $3,136.00 Windsor Locks $1,041.00 $2,730.00 $1,144.00 $2,864.00 Winsted $1,084.00 $2,919.00 $1,187.00 $3,066.00 Wolcott $1,230.00 $3,480.00 $1,355.00 $3,644.00 Woodbridge $1,130.00 $3,514.00 $1,241.00 $3,677.00 Woodbury $1,114.00 $3,140.00 $1,218.00 $3,288.00 Woodstock $1,059.00 $2,781.00 $1,156.00 $2,921.00 Woodstock Valley $1,059.00 $2,781.00 $1,156.00 $2,921.00 Finding Auto Insurance Resources in Connecticut Connecticut residents have many resources available when looking for auto insurance. Fortunately, the Connecticut DMV serves as a great starting point. If you are a State of Connecticut employee, the Supplemental Benefits Program works with insurers to provide discounted auto and home insurance. These benefits are for people who are working more than 17.5 hours a week, retirees who once worked with the state, and spouses. If you are a high risk individual and you can't find coverage, you have two basic options: Non-standard insurance (an insurance plan issued to a high risk driver, either due to a DUI conviction or a driver using a high performance or modified vehicle as primary transportation. Connecticut Automobile Insurance Assigned Risk Plan. According to the Connecticut Department of Insurance, the non-standard options are less expensive than the Automobile Insurance Assigned Risk Plan. However, the market for non-standard insurance plans is quite limited. Tips for Saving on Connecticut Auto Insurance If you're a driver in Connecticut, the following tips can help you save on a policy: Obtain quotes from multiple insurers to find the best price and coverage plan. Raise your deductibles (out-of-pocket costs.) Maintain a good driving record. Complete an accident prevention course (the state offers numerous approved programs that yield great savings upon completion.) Purchasing a modest, economical car is another way you can qualify for lower insurance rates in Connecticut. Anti-theft devices, good grades for younger drivers, and the addition of home insurance can provide cost savings as well. Moving to Connecticut: Important Information If you're moving to Connecticut, you need to go to the DMV within 30 days to convert your out-of-state license. Your current license and registration must be valid to receive your license. The DMV also requires a vision test and fees for the license and registration. In Connecticut, you must register an out-of-state vehicle within 60 days, and in the meantime, you'll need a temporary registration. You may also need to get an emissions inspection within 30 days after registration. Understanding Driving Laws in Connecticut In Connecticut, you can't use a cellphone while driving. You can use hands-free devices, but texting and talking directly on your phone both result in fines. Also, drivers under 18 may not use cell phones at all, even if they are talking through a hands-free device. Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is also strictly enforced, and if you're caught, you'll have to serve jail time, pay significant fines, and lose your license for a period of time. According to the Implied Consent Law, police officers can chemically test your blood if they suspect that you are driving under the influence. Refusal to take this test immediately results in fines and license suspension. Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Auto Insurance 1. What are some factors that can affect the cost of car insurance? Insurers take many different factors into account when determining the cost of your auto insurance. Your insurer will look at the type of car you drive, what purpose your car serves, your past driving record, and even the location where you store your car. 2. How can you get your teen covered without having to pay high premiums? For teenagers, you are going to have to pay higher premiums. However, you can save money if your teen gets good grades (Bs and above) which may qualify him for a good student discount. Additionally, certain factors affect the price of the premiums for your teen, including: Your teen's vehicle (a luxury or high performance car costs more to insure.) Gender (males typically pay more for coverage.) One to two years of safe driving. 3. What should you do when you sell your car? When selling your car, sign the reverse side of the title and give it to the new owner with a bill of sale (form H-31). Remove your plates and return them to the DMV along with the registration certificate. You may want to cancel your insurance policy until you have a new car. How to Get Great Rates on Connecticut Auto Insurance Finding an auto insurance quote can seem overwhelming – but insuranceQuotes.com helps you find the best car insurance policy at the best price. Every year, we match 15 million consumers to the nation’s biggest auto insurance companies, including State Farm, Allstate and Liberty Mutual. insuranceQuotes.com connects you with local and national insurance companies that give you free car insurance estimates by phone or email within minutes. By comparing multiple quotes, you can be sure that you’re getting the best price for car insurance. Connecticut Auto Insurance Resources Need more than just Connecticut auto insurance quotes? We offer insurance information in addition to our excellent auto insurance quotes in Connecticut. If you’d like to learn more about Connecticut insurance, here are some helpful websites. Connecticut Insurance Department A portal for information on the laws and regulations governing insurance in Connecticut Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles An online resource for license registration, renewals and general information Connecticut Cell Phone Driving Laws Can you talk and drive in Connecticut? insuranceQuotes.com Auto Rate Methodology Rates are based on one vehicle and one driver who has state minimum coverage with $500 deductibles. The hypothetical driver is 35 years old, female or male, employed, a college graduate, and has good credit. She has no traffic violations, claims, or lapse in coverage. The vehicle is assumed to be a sedan that is garaged on premises, used primarily for commuting, and driven 16,000 miles per year. Rates include commonly available carrier discounts and are estimates and not guaranteed. Average cost of car insurance by state Find out how a county’s insurance rate stacks up against the state average, as well as how it fares against other counties in the state. Use our interactive map to find out: How your state compares to the national average How your county compares to the state average How your ZIP compares to the county Use the "Select state" or "Select county" dropdown menu to choose your state, then your county. Select an item from the list to take a closer look. Vehicle Type Coupe Sedan SUV Truck Hybrid Gender Male Female Both Age 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 Marital Status Single Married % Difference from national average rate We are comparing rates now, this may take a few minutes to complete. Calculator Assumptions Calculator Assumptions:X Calculator assumptions are based on a hypothetical driver with excellent credit, a bachelor’s degree, and no lapse in coverage who drives 15,000 miles per year, has state minimum policy limits, a $500 deductible on collision and comprehensive coverage and uninsured motorist coverage. Legal Disclaimer:X See "Calculator Assumptions" for certain assumptions used in this calculation. Calculation based on historical data which may not predict future results. You should not rely solely on this tool to determine how much car insurance rates may go up or go down when moving to a different location. There are numerous factors you should consider, including the terms of your insurance policy, the laws in your state, and your past driving record, among others. Your use of this tool is governed by insuranceQuotes' Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Is it the right time to shop for Auto Insurance? Car insurance rates constantly fluctuate and vary each month. Find out when you should shop for new quotes. How we calculate these rates: How we calculate these rates:X In addition to your input, rates are based on one car and one driver with no traffic violations and state minimum coverage. Rates assume the driver is an employed college graduate and a homeowner with no lapse in coverage. Vehicle is assumed to be garaged on premises and used primarily for commuting and is driven 15,000 miles annually. These rates also include a percentage discount to reflect an aggregate of commonly available carrier discounts. Rates displayed are estimates and are not guaranteed. See how my rates are trending: State: Alaska Alabama Arkansas Arizona California Colorado Connecticut District of Columbia Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Iowa Idaho Illinois Indiana Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Massachusetts Maryland Maine Michigan Minnesota Missouri Mississippi Montana North Carolina North Dakota Nebraska New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico Nevada New York Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Virginia Vermont Washington Wisconsin West Virginia Wyoming Vehicle Type: Coupe Sedan SUV Truck Hybrid Gender: Male & Female Male Female Age: 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 Marital Status: Single Married Drivers like you are paying an average of $101/mo right now. Rates are moving up! Lock in rates before they rise. Rates are on the rise for drivers like you! If you are currently paying more than $101/mo, now may be the perfect time for you to lock in low rates before they rise again. Give our free customized quote comparison tool a test drive to see just how much your rates can be reduced! Calculator assumptions are based on a hypothetical married and employed 45-year-old female with high education, excellent credit, and no lapse in coverage with policy limits of $100,000 for injury liability for one person, $300,000 for all injuries, a $500 deductible on collision and comprehensive coverage, including uninsured motorist coverage, for vehicles from the following list: 2012 Toyota Camry, 2012 Honda CRV, 2012 Honda Civic, 2012 Ford F150, 2012 Toyota Prius. See "Calculator Assumptions" for certain assumptions used in this calculation. Calculation based on historical data which may not predict future results. You should not rely solely on this tool to determine how much your car insurance rate may go up if you commit a traffic violation. There are numerous factors you should consider, including the terms of your insurance policy, the laws in your state, the nature of the violation and your past driving record, among others. Your use of this tool is governed by insuranceQuotes' Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1341
__label__wiki	0.759392	0.759392	ISG appoints Northern regional managing director ISG has announced the appointment of Danny Murray as Northern regional managing director for its UK Construction business. Based in the company’s Manchester office, Danny brings over 30 years’ construction industry experience to the business over a career that encompasses senior roles with national main contractor organisations. Most recently, as a national operations director, Danny was responsible for the delivery of projects valued at £625 million, with core expertise in the education, healthcare, commercial office, defence, R&D and retail sectors. As Northern regional managing director, Danny will oversee ISG’s operations across its Manchester, Liverpool, Bradford and Leeds office bases, building upon existing customer relationships, spearheading the drive to secure additional framework appointments and further developing the company’s pipeline of high-quality future opportunities. ISG’s Northern region is currently delivering one of the company’s single largest construction projects – the £66+ million Exhibition Centre Liverpool and four star hotel development, with a number of high-profile leisure schemes also set to be announced imminently. The region is also re-bidding the influential North West Construction Hub framework and continues to be active on the MoJ’s Strategic Alliance Framework, Cleveland Fire Authority Capital Build Framework, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust Framework and YORbuild. Danny commented: “ISG has a strong presence in the North of England and I’m delighted to be joining an organisation entrusted to deliver so many high-profile and regionally significant projects. There is great strength and depth of experience within the business and I’m looking forward to working closely with my talented colleagues to grow and further strengthen ISG’s Northern region.”	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1342
__label__cc	0.731563	0.268437	Vote for "Sinai Tor At Forest Music Fest" in the Inspired by Israel video contest! Sinai Tor At Forest Music Fest Sinai Tor is one of the leading musicians in what is called alternative Jewish music in the Land of Israel. Many of the young musicians today were first inspired by Tor. He is not the kind of musician who jumps and puts on a choreographic performance on stage. With Sinai Tor, it’s all about the soul. He often sits, eyes closed and plays the same chorus over and over in a trance-like manner. It is not rare for him to also close his eyes and make animal sounds as part of his vocal repertoire. The best father in the world One of his best songs celebrates his father as being the best father in the world. The message is simple, yet powerful. He contrasts between two styles of fathers – one who is super-tight and attempts to raise children in his own image. Then he brings the alternative – the father who says to his child – go break a leg – learn on your own – and let’s his children live and learn. Then, he surprises with his description of the best father in the world – a father who says to his child – take the lead. The father who asks his child to take the lead and wherever you go, I’ll try to catch up. He claims that a child who is raised by a father like this will end up respecting his father more than any other child. Simple, but brilliant.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1344
__label__wiki	0.918635	0.918635	Ssireum wrestlers compete during the 80-kg qualifying round of the Korea Open Ssireum Festival in Andong, South Korea. \| AFP-JIJI North and South Korea join hands to win UNESCO status for wrestling AFP-JIJI Online: Nov 26, 2018 Last Modified: Nov 26, 2018 PARIS - North and South Korea marked a new step in their reconciliation efforts Monday as UNESCO accepted a joint bid for Korean wrestling to be recognized as one of the world’s most treasured cultural practices. The two Koreas had originally filed separate applications for their traditional form of wrestling to be recognized on the U.N. agency’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. “The fact that both Koreas accepted to join their respective applications is unprecedented,” UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said in a statement. “The joint inscription marks a highly symbolic step on the road to inter-Korean reconciliation,” she added. The announcement is the latest in a string of symbolic gestures between Seoul and its nuclear-armed neighbor in recent months. Last week the two announced that they had connected a road across their shared border for the first time in 14 years, while earlier this month the South gave the North hundreds of tons of tangerines in exchange for mushrooms. Annual joint military exercises between South Korea and its ally the United States have been scaled down for spring 2019 to avoid undoing diplomatic advances to bring peace to the Korean Peninsula. The South’s dovish president, Moon Jae-in, has long favored engagement with the North, which is subject to U.N. sanctions over its nuclear activities. Moon has dangled large investment and joint cross-border projects as incentives for steps toward denuclearization, although the U.S. favors a tougher approach until Pyongyang fully dismantles its weapons programs. The bid for recognition on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list — which is separate from its list of World Heritage sites — was approved at a meeting in Mauritius. Successful applications are largely symbolic but can serve to raise the profile of winning countries and their cultural practices. Known as Ssirum in North Korea and Sssireum in the South — each uses a different system to render the language into English — wrestling has been a feature of village festivals for centuries. The sport has some similarities to Japanese sumo but begins with two wrestlers facing each other on their knees in a pit, holding onto a cloth sash tied around the waist and using their strength and technique to knock their opponent to the ground. In the South, wrestlers are topless and only wear tight shorts, while in the North they don sleeveless jackets. Southern matches are held on sand while the North uses a round mattress. There has only been one inter-Korean wrestling competition, on the South’s Jeju Island, in 2003. Until now, North and South Korea have always submitted separate bids for recognition on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list. South Korea added its tradition of making kimchi in 2013, prompting the North to seek the same status for its own version, granted in 2015. The Korean folk song “Arirang” has a similar story — the South’s was recognized in 2012, followed by the North’s two years later. For wrestling, the South applied in 2016, a year after the North. But at a meeting with Moon in Paris last month, Azoulay suggested the requests be combined, and the idea was also taken up with North Korean officials. The two Koreas are still technically at war after the 1950-1953 conflict ended with an armistice rather than a peace treaty, sealing the division of the peninsula with an impenetrable border. The border area, 4 kilometers wide and 248 kilometers long and known as the Demilitarized Zone, has become something of a nature reserve due to the lack of human activity. UNESCO has suggested it could be designated as a special natural biosphere under a similar joint initiative. LATEST ASIA PACIFIC STORIES The United States on Tuesday announced sanctions on the Myanmar military's Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing and other military leaders it said were responsible for extrajudicial killings of Ro... North Korea likely suffering worst downturn since 1990s famine How much are sanctions hurting Kim Jong Un? North Korea's economy hasn't been in such bad shape since his father was battling floods, droughts and a famine that some estimates say killed as much as... Pakistani journalists stage protests to denounce censorship Pakistani journalists held nationwide protests Tuesday to denounce rampant censorship by the country's powerful security services, massive layoffs due to budget cuts and months-long delays in payme... North Korea, South Korea, UNESCO	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1348
__label__wiki	0.638664	0.638664	Reef Immersion with Little Fish WORDS Caitlin Jones PICTURES Mark Fitz Crystal Lacey, better known as ‘Little Fish,’ grew up in country Queensland, more than 170 kilometres from the coast. Despite this, she’s dedicated her life to preserving the Great Barrier Reef. Here, she explains to Journey Beyond how she became known as Little Fish and how we can enjoy and care for the reef. Little Fish’s affinity for all things marine started when she was a pintsized pre-schooler with the task of coming up with a story. Her book was about diving with great white sharks and little did she know that her imaginative story would later become reality. The country kid from Meringandan went on a cruise ship as a teenager and it was then that she discovered the underwater world. “I went scuba diving and from then, I was sold. Just before I left school, I moved up to the Whitsundays and got a job as a diver”. Since then, she’s worked with whale sharks in Western Australia, been a dive instructor in Fiji and done tagging and research on great whites with famed shark conservationist Rodney Fox in South Australia. It was while working in WA that she earnt the name ‘Little Fish’ for being small and able to ‘swim like a fish’ – in fact, she was the only one who could keep up with the whale sharks. For the past 10 years, Little Fish has been based out of Airlie Beach working for tourism operator, Cruise Whitsundays. A jack of all trades, she’s a dive instructor, underwater photographer, reef interpreter, marine educator and medical emergency trainer. Passionate about protecting the reef, Little Fish has spent a lot of time removing the poisonous Crown of Thorns star fish, a pest that eats three times its body size in coral a day. She also actively contributes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Eye on the Reef program, which collects information about the reef’s health and marine animals. Little Fish sees her work less as a job and more as a way of life and loves sharing her passion for the reef with others. “I love creating once in a lifetime experiences for people. Taking someone in a wheelchair snorkelling - that's pretty special.`` Reef Immersion with Little Fish - Journey Beyond “This is nature and you better immerse yourself in it because it’s unbelievable”. Eager to share her enthusiasm with other Cruise Whitsundays staff, Little Fish works closely with the team. “I want to show the staff that what we do matters and that they can make a difference,” she said. And while thousands of guests visit the reef every year, there’s a responsibility to look after it for generations to come. “We’re not going to have it forever if we don’t look after it and the way we look after it is by teaching and showing people how magical it is,” Little Fish said. “I want a day out on the reef to change people’s view. I want them to go home realising how lucky they are to experience such a special place and want to save it”. 5 ways you can enjoy the reef responsibly 1. WEAR WETSUITS This will minimise the use of sunscreen, meaning less chemicals enter the water. 2. LOOK BUT DON’T TOUCH Take lots of photos and leave only bubbles behind. 3. HUMAN FOOD IS FOR HUMANS Feeding it to marine life can make them very sick. 4. AVOID STANDING Make an effort not to step on the reef – coral is very fragile! If you need to rest, float on your back. Get the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Eye on the Reef Sightings app and upload any interesting animal sightings you have.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1351
__label__cc	0.680658	0.319342	Personal / Power of Attorney and Guardianships Solicitors Aberdeen & Stonehaven Powers of Attorney will provide you with peace of mind and the confidence to know that your affairs will be adequately looked after should you be unable to look after them yourself. If you have elderly relatives who are having difficulty managing their own financial or business affairs, then they may wish to consider granting a Power of Attorney. This document could authorise a nominated individual, it could be a relative, a friend or a professional person, to sign documents on the granter’s behalf. Even although it may not be required immediately, it is certainly a sensible precaution to have one in place. A Power of Attorney can also be prepared to cover welfare matters. The nominated individual would then be able to take decisions about the persons care, accommodation and medical treatment. These are important concepts in modern society and in many cases medical professionals and social workers are recommending that such a welfare power of attorney is in place before making arrangements for care. The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 changed the way Powers of Attorney are dealt with in Scotland requiring the documents to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before being operated. James & George Collie can provide advice on the appropriate documents to meet the requirements of a client and his or her family, and give detailed guidance on this matter. If someone has already lost capacity and is unable to manage their financial or welfare affairs, then there are certain procedures that can be followed by applying to the Sheriff Court for powers to allow someone to carry out these functions for the individual. The end result is often either a Guardianship Order or an Intervention Order. Once again, James & George Collie can offer guidance and assistance in this matter and prepare the documentation required. We can also assist in the whole management of a person’s financial affairs. Contact our Power of Attorney Solicitors based in Aberdeen today At James & George Collie, we pride ourselves on our reputation for offering a high-quality service at a fair price. Our Aberdeen-based team of Power of Attorney solicitors are friendly and approachable and will guide you through every stage clearly and carefully. With over 175 years of practising law in the North-East, we are trusted by generations of families to provide accurate, reliable legal advice in plain English and free of legal jargon. No matter your circumstances, you can depend on our solicitors at James & George Collie. For information and advice please contact Forbes McLennan on 01224 581581 or otherwise please complete our online contact form.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1354
__label__cc	0.661579	0.338421	Kayastha Matrimony > Unmarried > Mathur Matrimony Kayastha Mathur Unmarried Grooms Subcaste : Mathur Location : Delhi, India Occupation : Consultant Business Consultant at an IT company. Based out of Gurgaon. Loves reading and watching movies. Simple & soft-spoken. MBA: IIM Calcutta. Illustrious family - from Jaipur. Late Grandfather was Chief Engineer. Father, formerly Director at a National Institute, is a Consultant at World Bank. Mother is a homemaker. Younger brother is a Consultant at a marketing firm. Maternal grandfather - Educationist. Maternal uncle - leading Neurosurgeon in Delhi. Location : Chicago, Illinois, United States of America Vibhor is a software professional living in San Francisco bay area. He has completed his Master's degree from University of California, and was working with an e-commerce giant in Chicago before and now working with an online retailer in bay area. He is a calm person who likes traveling, reading, photography and hanging out with family/friends. He believes in experiences over possessions and try every bit to live in the present and enjoy the moment. We look forward to have a life partner for him who has similar set of core values, family orientation, and understanding and respect for each others individuality. I am looking for an understanding partnerwho is looking smart, fair colour,homly, pay respect to parent,brother,other family member/relatives,in good job,height should be betwwen 5'3"--5;6",resident of rajasthan prefer jaipur,ajmer, udaipur, kota, bikaner,sirohi,sikar,jodhpur, know cooking food veg/ non-veg. I am down to earth, confident, smart, and fun loving, and caring as well. I am looking for someone who would be a great companion and friend. Location : Haryana, India My name is Shubham Mathur and I am working with OYO ROOMS. My previous organisations were Amazon and Reliance Jio. I was working with Amazon for 4 years as Software Developer and with Reliance Jio for an year. I have completed B.Tech in CSE branch from IIIT Hyderabad. Currently I am located in Gurgaon. Location : London, London, United Kingdom Education : CA Occupation : Chartered Accountant Since graduating from university in 2012, I have been working in the finance and banking sector in London. I started my career interning in the Investment banking division at leading investment banks. I am currently working as a Management Consultant in one of the world's leading global consultancies based in London and specialize in banking and capital markets. I completed an undergraduate degree in Economics (First class/distinction) and subsequently completed a Masters in Economics from Oxford University. I am also a qualified Chartered Accountant (ACA) with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). I am extremely driven and ambitious but feel that I am a grounded, light-hearted and easy-going person at the same time. I come from a close knit, warm and loving family. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had a global upbringing in 3 countries - India, Kuwait and the UK. My family moved to England just under 20 years ago. We are a cultured and highly educated family of professionals (engineers, lawyers, doctors, CAs etc). My father is an IIT Delhi educated engineer working as a Management Consultant and Partner at a global firm. My mother is a Miranda House (Delhi University) graduate currently working as a teacher. I have one younger sister, an Imperial College educated engineer, who lives and works in London also as a Management Consultant. I regularly visit my extended family in New Delhi. Though I grew up outside India, I speak fluent Hindi and enjoy Bollywood movies. I love to travel, particularly city breaks and generally have a fun and relaxed time with friends and family. I am a cultured guy who appreciates art, architecture and design. I love listening to music of all genres especially jazz and also enjoy playing badminton. Having grown up in the United Kingdom, I am only interested in someone from a NRI family background or someone who has been educated abroad. I am looking for a highly educated and qualified partner who is passionate about their work and ambitious, but is also fun and down to earth. As a family, we are less concerned with caste and horoscope matching, and place far greater emphasis on cultural and family values, education background and professional attainment. Compatibility is extremely important to me, as is a progressive and balanced mindset. I believe that a relationship should be one of equal partnership where both can encourage and inspire each other to be the best that they can be. If this profile resonates with you and you think we'd get along, please do get in touch. I hope to hear from you. Note: Interests/messages from profiles without photographs/pictures will be immediately declined. Location : Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Education : Other Degree in Finance Occupation : Financial Analyst / Planning We are Jay's parents who are putting up this profile. He is now working as a Senior Manager in E&Y ,one of the Big 4s of the world, at the Company's ABU DHABHI office in UAE Earlier he was working as a Management/Finance Consultancy Professional with PwC, another Big 4 accounting firm, at the company's Columbia office in South Carolina, USA. Prior to that, he was working with Bank of New York in London, UK. He holds two masters degrees, one in Finance from Tulane University, New Orleans in USA and the other in Business and Economics from University of Bath in the UK, for which he was awarded the prestigious Jubilee Scholarship, a fully funded scholarship instigated by the UK Government on sixty years of the Queen's coronation. He is our only child who grew up in a joint family environment. He is a family oriented, fun loving, and kind boy who likes to maintain an active lifestyle. He is an avid traveler who has traveled to over 30 countries so far and enjoys all forms of art. We are based in Jaipur, where we both work as business professionals. His father is an Executive Director at Gaston Energy India, which is our family business. His mother has a handicrafts business and runs an NGO called QUALIS. Ours is a well established Mathur household that enjoys a strong foothold in Jaipur. Please reach out to us if you would like to know more. Thanks. Thanks My son Aditya Mathur, July 89 born is handsome and fair. He has done Engineering from RVCE, Bangalore and MBA (Finance) from SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai. He also is CFA Level 3 certified and works for a French MNC in Bangalore. He is fair,tall,handsome & kind hearted boy.He loves & respect his family & rich in cultural values.He has done Masters in Business Administration & currently working with Walmart India as Manager. Education : M.Tech. My name is Akshay Mathur. I come from a Upper Middle Class, Nuclear Family with Moderate Values. I have completed my M.Tech. and currently work in the Government Sector as an Officer. HE is B. E. and working in U S based software company in Banglore.He is very composed well mannered simple boy . His hobbies are playing different games and music.Father is retired as superintending engineer Govt. of Rajasthan and mother is working in a reputed public school. Srivastava Grooms Saxena Grooms Ambashtha Grooms CKP Grooms Dass Grooms Asthana Grooms Barujibi Grooms MBA Grooms B.Tech. Grooms B.A. Grooms B.Com. Grooms M.A. Grooms BE Grooms Higher Secondary School / High Sc..	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1357
__label__wiki	0.501684	0.501684	Tag Archives: world fantasy Is Wired Magazine Racist? Posted on January 10, 2017 by Kevin Strange 2017 is barely a week old and already the politically correct social justice warriors have set to work on H.P. Lovecraft and Lovecraftian fiction once again. I spoke out when the SJW league infiltrated the science fiction and fantasy community and called for the removal of the Lovecraft bust from the world Fantasy Award. And then I did it again in a recent article wherein I predicted that it was only going to take one more concerted push from SJWs to bury Lovecraft’s legacy entirely under the word RACIST and force the niche Lovecraftian horror community to abandon Lovecraft’s name and likeness altogether. My prediction is that the Lovecraftian community will put up absolutely no fight, even though some of the most prominent editors of Lovecraftian fiction have made a living off of his legacy since the 80s and 90s. They will simply cave to the pressure like most well meaning liberals, terrified of being branded as insensitive or worse, as racist. So they’ll drop Lovecraft and re-brand themselves Cosmic Horror (a niche of a niche that’s already established) or Mythos Fiction and that will be the end of H.P. Lovecraft. All of his groundbreaking, forward thinking, vast imagination will be separated from the root like so much lice from a stubborn scalp, and any positive mention of the man will get the speaker branded as equally if not MORE racist because, after all, in 2017, we should all know better, right? Which brings us to my response and commentary to Wired magazine’s seemingly harmless article posted on 1-6-2017. Radical political correctness is always disguised as innocent virtue. As an attempt to just “do the right thing.” But even a cursory glance at the author’s rationale always shows a deeply malicious intent. And that intent is always to co-opt and then censor and control a group or organization. As always, I encourage you to read the entire article in context before returning here to read my selected quotes and commentary. Let’s begin: H.P. LOVECRAFT IS universally acknowledged as one of the most important horror writers of the 20th century, and references to his Cthulhu Mythos abound in contemporary culture. Which is the only reason SJWs and Feminists give a single shit about Lovecraftian fiction. Look, horror fiction itself has a niche reading market. The specific niche of cosmic alien monsters haunting the dreams of bookish intellectuals is a minuscule little genre. But over the years, Lovecraft (specifically Cthulhu) has become a cultural icon. The Lovecraft-created monster appears in video games, heavy metal music, TV shows like SUPERNATURAL and SOUTHPARK and in feature films. And wherever pop culture occurs, you damn well know SJWs will come sniffing around. But Lovecraft was also quite racist, a fact made clear in his voluminous correspondence. That’s something fantasy author Daniel José Older has been outspoken about in his criticism of Lovecraft’s work. “The dude was a wild, rabid racist in a very racist time in a very racist country,” Older says in Episode 237 of the Geek’s Guide to the Galaxy podcast. “He really did weaponize literature in a way that was very damaging to people who were reading it.” So here we go. Right off the jump we get the big R word. Lovecraft is an SJW’s wet dream. He was an unabashed racist. He also died in 1937. It wasn’t until 1945 that the world at large was made aware of the kind of horrific nightmares that Hitler’s insane eugenics policy had created. It’s easy, especially for the politically correct left, to paint people who lived before WW2 as monstrous, hateful racism factories. But the fact is, the entire world was in love with the science of eugenics and the importance of the role genealogy plays in behavior. Lovecraft, had he lived, may well have denounced Hitler and racism had he bore witness to the atrocities of the Nazi concentration camps. We literally can’t know how he would have reacted because he died before Americans were made aware of what Hitler was doing with all of those people. One of the favorite pastimes of the professional bigot hunters is to take a beloved historical figure and apply current political correctness onto their long dead corpse. To suggest that these heroes be vilified and sacrificed to the great SJW god of virtue. This sacrifice is designed to embolden The Narrative and keep moving “progress” forward. That’s what the last sentence sneaks in there. “He really did weaponize literature in a way that was very damaging to people who were reading it.” Like hell he did. His stories of genetic cross breeding like THE SHADOW OVER INSMOUTH smacked of a fear of interracial breeding but let’s get this into its proper context. H.P. Lovecraft barely ever made money off his fiction. He was relegated to dime store rags like WEIRD TALES and had a tiny, barely traceable readership until after his death when his friend August Derleth opened a publishing house named after his fictional town of Arkham. Saying that his racist allegories “weaponized literature” would be the same as saying that Saturday morning cartoons created violence in children. But then, SJWs even ruined THAT awesome pastime, too. Claiming that literature can be weaponized is tantamount to calling for books to be censored or burned. Books aren’t weapons. They’re stories. Violent people commit violent acts. Art can’t force them to do so. Silvia Moreno-Garcia recently won a World Fantasy Award for her anthology She Walks in Shadows, a book of Lovecraftian fiction written by women. She says that many writers of color were reluctant to contribute stories to the book because of his views. “Some people of color would tell me no, no, Lovecraft was racist, so I can’t write that,” she says. “And I would be like, ‘Well, yeah, but why don’t you put your own spin on it?’” So what we have here is a woman who won an award for editing a sexist anthology–which excluded male writers from being published–encouraging people who have no interest in a niche of a niche genre of fiction to write in it simply because few people of color write this type of horror. Are people of color purposefully left out of Lovecraftian horror? Of course not. Culturally, this type of fiction hasn’t historically appealed to people of color. Historically, the people who have most often chosen to write it have been American and Western European white dudes. This does not in and of itself make Lovecraftian fiction inherently bigoted. The best and most famous H.P. Lovecraft historian, S.T. Joshi, is a person of color. What IS sexist is excluding men from a Lovecraftian anthology. What IS racist is singling out people of color to write for an anthology based solely on their race. What she means by “Put your own spin on it” is, “Why don’t you make it black?” Which is blatantly offensive to anyone who celebrates egalitarianism, real diversity and true equality. Older, Moreno-Garcia, and Broaddus recently helped edit People of Colo(u)r Destroy Fantasy and People of Colo(u)r Destroy Horror, special issues of Fantasy magazine and Nightmare magazine written, edited, and illustrated by people of color. People of color have recently become much more vocal within the fantasy and horror communities, which has led to a certain amount of backlash, but Older says that criticisms of authors such as Lovecraft should be viewed as part of a healthy fan dialog. I would venture to guess that absolutely none of the backlash comes from the fact that people of color are writing horror and fantasy fiction. But rather that editors are curating fiction for anthologies that specifically exclude white people based on their race instead of the merit of their work. Criticizing Lovecraft for his contextually historic racism really does nothing to help with 2017 race relations. It’s not a healthy dialog. In fact it’s everything that’s wrong with race relations in this country. America is a cultural melting pot. That means that any culture is welcome to live here alongside all other cultures. It does NOT mean that it’s ok to infiltrate a community, draw a line down the middle, choose one side to be an oppressed minority and the other side an oppressive majority based solely on race and gender. It does not mean that it’s ok to artificially inject a racial equilibrium and then change the speech and behavior of the established community to conform to the new population. That creates resentment on both sides and fosters exactly the kind of fear and violence we see popping off on the daily in our communities today. Marxism fails as a form of government and it fails as a social experiment. Marxism simply fails in practice, no matter what your gender studies professor told you in college. Silvia Moreno-Garcia on science fiction conventions: “I went to one in Vancouver, in a section of the city called Richmond, which is predominantly Asian and Chinese, so when you’re outside all the signs are in Chinese, and everyone is Chinese, basically, and then I went into the hotel where the convention was happening, and everybody inside was white. … And I was just kind of like, ‘Why aren’t these people [of color] here?’ There were a ton of people outside, but they weren’t going into the convention. And it wasn’t like they weren’t consuming products, because I know some of these people watch shows or read comics or whatever, but it seemed like two different worlds. It was the strangest sensation.” Again, what we have here is an SJW entering a community and then doing what SJWs do best: playing “find the bigot.” They’re bigoteers. They exploit the inherent goodness in people by artificially creating a problem that is non-existent and then courageously offering a solution which inevitably restricts free speech, makes people hyper aware of the race, gender and sexual orientation of their peers, then seeks to gain control over the community with some kind of ridiculous politically correct Code of Conduct. There were obviously no signs at this convention banning the attendance of people of color. The observation that this innocent seeming SJW is making is that the culture outside of the building is different from the culture inside the building. In true Cultural Marxist fashion, it’s her go-to reaction to find that the group outside MUST be somehow oppressed and deprived of the activities going on inside because, in her words, “I know some of these people watch shows or read comics, or whatever.” Yeah, or whatever. The whatever is that they enjoy a rich culture all their own which does not expressly EXCLUDE anyone from an outside culture, but is predominantly practiced by those who were raised inside of it. That’s a GOOD thing. That’s cultural enrichment. That’s diversity. That’s multiculturalism. The fact that you can walk down a street and see two different cultures thriving side by side IS THE HALLMARK OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION. It’s literally what makes America America (or Canada Canada, in this case.) Had she thrown open the doors and tossed comic books into the air outside the convention, I imagine that what she thinks would happen is that the people milling about outside would suddenly dive for the comics, sit down on the ground wide eyed and astonished at the super heroes fighting the super villains inside the pages and weep in gratitude that she finally exposed them to spandex laden crime fighters. A culture they surely had no idea existed until she came along and freed their locked minds from their comic book opression. The reality is, if any of them gave a fuck to spend 75 dollars on a weekend pass, dress up as their favorite Avenger and drop another 40-80 bucks per signature for celebrity autographs, they sure as hell would already be inside doing just that. Forcing cultural assimilation is racist. Assuming a culture is repressed because it doesn’t indulge in your favorite past times as often as you is racist. This woman is racist. Maurice Broaddus on “Status Quo Warriors”: “There are people who want the status quo, and that’s what they’re advocating for. And even though I’ve taken a step back over the last couple years from being provocative online, I ended up getting in a shouting match with an editor because he was trying to defend his all-white anthology, and I’m like, ‘That’s all right. Own it. You wanted the status quo, you read only within your little comfort zone, you aren’t trying to find new voices, you want the voices that you’ve grown up with and that fit your little taste, and you don’t want to do the work of finding new voices. That’s fine, just own it.’ So yeah, you have editors who just want to fight for the status quo.” I’ve never seen the term before but I assume “Status Quo Warriors” is some kind of weak SJW attempt to impart their own pejorative ending in “warrior” onto people who use common sense and logic to destroy their racist and culturally insensitive rhetoric. So this is nonsense. This is utter racist nonsense. I don’t know which editor nor which anthology he’s referring to, but as a former publisher of genre fiction, I can take a pretty educated guess. I’ve published people of color and I’ve published women but anytime I ever put a call out for open submissions the POC and female subs were few and far between. It’s my guess that our quoted author here picked up an already published anthology (or worse, was rejected from it and lashed out with the race card in protest. But that’s purely speculation on my part.) and combed through it looking for the race and gender of each writer included in the table of contents. Which again, is totally racist and sexist. The merit of the stories and the authors themselves is unimportant. Our quoted author only sees race and gender. Not individuals. Not people with families and jobs who struggle and work hard to produce the best fiction they possibly can. To SJWs, if you don’t forward The Narrative of artificial diversity and artificial equality, you don’t matter. My guess is that purely coincidentally, purely based on merit, purely based on a shortage or complete lack of submissions from people of color because the subject matter of the submission call didn’t appeal to them, this particular anthology ended up being full of white authors. Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe this editor is as much a racist as our quoted authors above. But I doubt it. In closing, I have no doubt that the SJWs will win this battle to shame H.P. Lovecraft into oblivion. Why? Because he was a racist and doesn’t deserve to be celebrated as a cultural and literary icon? No. Because no one inside the Lovecraftian horror community has the balls to stand up and say what I just said right here. Don’t have the balls to stand up against race baiting articles like the one Wired posted. Don’t have the balls to do what’s right and stand for common sense, logic and true egalitarianism. Lovecraftian horror will die because the community is full of a bunch of SJW loving PC pussies. Posted in Blogs and Rants \| Tagged cosmic horror, cultural marxism, fantasy, hp lovecraft, lovecraftian fiction, mythos fiction, pc culture, pc police, politically correct, science fiction, social justice, wired magazine, world fantasy, world fantasy award Kevin Strange’s Thoughts On The World Fantasy Award And H.P. Lovecraft Posted on November 17, 2015 by Kevin Strange Sometimes it’s hard to understand what my actual stance on something is because I just make really sarcastic jokes on facebook out of context about things that piss me off. So here’s the “Strange” dope: The Lovecraft writing community is trying to have its cake and eat it too concerning the World Fantasy convention retiring the H.P. Lovecraft award bust. It’s blatant hypocrisy to claim that retiring the award “because racism” is the right thing to do (or pretending that there’s any truth to the false narrative that the convention decided all on its own with no outside influence that it should go) while continuing to profit from anthologies, podcasts, audio adaptations, biographies, new edits of his literature, magazines, film festivals and conventions featuring H. P. Lovecraft, his fiction and his likeness as the MAIN THEME. Either he’s (buzz word!) problematic for fiction or he’s not. The man is a KNOWN NAZI SYMPATHIZER. That either matters or it doesn’t. To me it doesn’t fucking matter at all because he’s long fucking dead and lived in a time when ALMOST EVERYONE ON THE PLANET was into Adolph Hitler. He was on the fucking cover of TIME MAGAZINE. He was at the peak of his global popularity in Lovecraft’s time! Lovecraft fucking DIED IN 1937! He would have come out on the other side of WW2 like almost everyone else, completely reconsidering what Eugenics meant and restructuring his morals and beliefs based on the horrible actions of the Nazi party LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. Eliminating his likeness from the World Fantasy award SOLVES NOTHING. It’s a problem manufactured by people on the internet WHO MAKE A LIVING solving social problems they created! All of the back patting and celebration from the Lovecraft writing community really makes me sick. You don’t get to have it both ways. Either you accept the man for who and what he was within the context of his lifetime, along with being one of the most influential horror writers of all time, or his Nazi sympathies and racism are too much of a problem for you. You shouldn’t be able to exploit him, make money off of his likeness AND agree with the politically correct morons trying to erase him from history. Take a stand for your man and grow some balls. Posted in Blogs and Rants \| Tagged h.p. lovecraft, h.p. lovecraft film festival, HPLHS, the lovecraft ezine, world fantasy \| 5 Replies	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1359
__label__cc	0.735771	0.264229	Impact of Special Health Care Needs on Children & Families Children with Special Health Care Needs Whose Conditions Caused Family Financial Problems (California & Other States Only) All Other States Definition: Percentage of children ages 0-17 with special health care needs whose conditions caused financial problems for their families. Data Source: Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative, Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health, National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs; as cited in Children with Special Health Care Needs in California: A Profile of Key Issues, Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health (Jan. 2013). Footnote: Children with special health care needs are defined as those who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally. For more information, see the Data Source above. Learn More About Impact of Special Health Care Needs on Children & Families Measures of Impact of Special Health Care Needs on Children & Families on Kidsdata.org Children with special health care needs (CSHCN) are defined as those who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally. On kidsdata.org, indicators on the impact of special health care needs include difficulties faced by CSHCN, effects on their school, and impacts on parental stress, time, finances, and employment. See kidsdata.org's CSHCN category for the full list of indicators related to CSHCN, including data on demographics, access to care, quality of care, and health insurance coverage. These data come from the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs and the National Survey of Children's Health, which are conducted through telephone interviews with parents. Depending on the indicator, data are available for California, the U.S., all states other than California (including the District of Columbia), and/or geographies with at least 70,000 residents (as local area synthetic estimates based on American Community Survey data from the U.S. Census Bureau). Children with Special Health Care Needs Whose Conditions Consistently and/or Greatly Affect Their Daily Activities (California & U.S. Only) by Type of Insurance Children with Special Health Care Needs Whose Families Spend 11 Hours or More a Week on the Child’s Health Care (California & U.S. Only) Children with Special Health Care Needs Whose Family Member(s) Avoided Changing Jobs Due to Health Insurance (California & U.S. Only) Children Whose Parents Experienced Stress Due to Parenting, by Child's Special Needs Status (California & U.S. Only) by City and County (Regions of 70,000 Residents or More) Impact of Child's Special Health Care Needs on Parental Employment (California & U.S. Only) by Complexity of Need by Income Level Out-of-Pocket Expenses for Children with Special Health Care Needs, by Adequacy of Insurance (California & U.S. Only) Overnight Hospital Stays Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California Only) Repeating a Grade in School, by Special Needs Status (California & U.S. Only) School Days Missed Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Children Ever Diagnosed with Asthma Asthma Hospitalizations, by Age Group Active California Children's Services (CCS) Enrollees, by Age Group Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) by Number of Conditions Prevalence of Special Health Care Needs Among Children (Regions of 70,000 Residents or More) Children with Four or More Functional Difficulties, by Type of Insurance (California & U.S. Only) Children with Major Disabilities, by City, School District and County (Regions of 65,000 Residents or More) by City, School District and County (Regions of 10,000 Residents or More) Children Who Are Overweight or Obese, by Special Needs Status (California & U.S. Only) Insured/Uninsured Children Who Have Special Health Care Needs, by Type of Insurance (California & U.S. Only) Poverty Among Children with Special Health Care Needs, by Race/Ethnicity (California & U.S. Only) Special Education Enrollment by Disability Children with Special Health Care Needs with One or More Adverse Experiences Children with Special Health Care Needs Who Are Usually/Always Resilient Emotional or Behavioral Difficulties Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Children with Special Health Care Needs Who Need Five or More Services (California & U.S. Only) Children with Special Health Care Needs Who Had a Preventive Medical Visit in the Last Year (California & U.S. Only) by Insurance Status Difficulty Accessing Community-Based Services for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Early Intervention for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Receipt of Mental Health Services Among Children with Special Health Care Needs Who Need Treatment or Counseling (California & U.S. Only) Referrals to Specialty Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Special Education Participation by Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Unmet Needs for Health Services Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Unmet Needs for Preventive Dental Services Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Usual Source of Health Care Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Youth with Special Health Care Needs Who Receive Needed Services for the Transition to Adulthood (California & U.S. Only) Insurance Coverage for Children with Special Health Care Needs Insurance Coverage for Children with Special Health Care Needs, by Insurance Status (California & Other States Only) Insurance Coverage for Children with Special Health Care Needs (Regions of 70,000 Residents or More) Consistency of Insurance Coverage, by Special Needs Status (California & U.S. Only) Adequacy of Insurance Coverage Among Insured Children, by Special Needs Status (California & U.S. Only) Adequacy of Insurance Coverage Among Children with Special Health Care Needs (Regions of 70,000 Residents or More) Quality of Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs Children with Special Health Care Needs Who Receive Care that Meets Federal Minimum Quality Standards (California & U.S. Only) Receipt of Effective Care Coordination for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & Other States Only) Receipt of Family-Centered Health Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Children with Special Health Care Needs Whose Families Feel Engaged in Shared Decision-Making with Providers (California & U.S. Only) Receipt of Care Within a Medical Home for Children with Special Health Care Needs (California & U.S. Only) Receipt of Care Within a Medical Home for Children with Special Health Care Needs (Regions of 70,000 Residents or More) Hospital Discharges by Primary Diagnosis by Source of Payment In California there are more than one million children and youth whose needs for health care services are greater or more complex than children generally. Their ongoing health problems—physical, behavioral, or developmental—can affect their ability to function and participate in important educational and social activities (1). In some cases their health problems can shorten their lives (1). Medical care for children with special health care needs (CSHCN) is often complicated by the co-occurrence of social, emotional, and academic problems (1, 2). Because of the higher caregiving burdens, families of CSHCN tend to experience more stress and difficulties with employment and finances than other families (1, 2). For example, the demands on families of CSHCN may require that parents cut down their work hours or give up a job, at the same time that they face higher than average out-of-pocket health care costs (1). Having a child with special needs also is a significant time commitment. Families of CSHCN may spend large amounts of time providing care, learning about their child’s condition and available services, and/or coordinating their child’s care (1). CSHCN account for more than 40% of all health care costs among children nationwide, despite making up less than 20% of the U.S. child population (1). Though advances in medical care have extended and improved the lives of millions of children, obtaining timely, appropriate, and affordable care remains a problem for many families. More than four in five CSHCN do not receive one or more basic aspects of quality health care, in California and nationally (1). For more information, see kidsdata.org’s Research & Links section and our Program for Children with Special Health Care Needs site. 1. Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative. (2013). Children with special health care needs in California: A profile of key issues. Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Retrieved from: http://www.lpfch.org/publication/children-special-health-care-needs-california-profile-key-issues 2. Hughes, D. (2015). In their own words: Improving the care experience of families with children with special health care needs. Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health & University of California, San Francisco. Retrieved from: http://www.lpfch.org/publication/their-own-words-improving-care-experience-families-children-special-health-care-needs Nearly 30% of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in California have conditions that impact their daily lives, according to 2009-2010 data. In addition, in 2011-2012, a larger proportion of CSHCN had parents who experienced stress from parenting (28%) compared with other children in California (12%) and compared with children with and without special health care needs in the U.S. (23% and 9%, respectively). Across California counties with data, 22% to 33% of CSHCN had parents who experienced parental stress. In 2009-2010, almost one-quarter of California's CSHCN (24%) had conditions that caused family financial problems. About 16% of CSHCN had families that spent 11+ hours per week providing and/or coordinating care for the child, an increase from 9% in 2005-2006. Some data show disparities by complexity of health needs, poverty level, insurance type, and race/ethnicity. For example, 29% of CSHCN in California have conditions that cause their families to cut back or stop working, according to 2009-2010 estimates. However, among CSHCN who have conditions that require more than just prescription medication, 41% have families that cut back or stop working. Furthermore, 46% of CSHCN in families at the lowest poverty level (0-99%) and 45% of CSHCN using public insurance have families that cut back or stop working. These rates also differ by race/ethnicity—20% of white, 26% of African American/black, and 36% of Hispanic/Latino CSHCN have conditions that cause their families to cut back or stop working.* * Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative. (2013). Children with special health care needs in California: A profile of key issues. Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Children with special health care needs (CSHCN), like all young people, need ready access to appropriate medical care, educational opportunities, and, sometimes, social services. CSHCN, especially those with more complex conditions, may face challenges in obtaining timely access to pediatric subspecialty care and receiving comprehensive, coordinated, high quality health care (1, 2). They also may experience difficulties participating in school and recreational activities (1, 3). Their families, too, often have to manage economic, social, and personal burdens in excess of families without CSHCN (1, 3). Policies and programs to promote the health and well-being of CSHCN and their families should address: Comprehensive and consistent health care coverage: CSHCN need comprehensive health insurance that provides adequate medical and mental health coverage, including access to specialty care providers (1, 4, 5). These children also need coverage without gaps that can cause delays or problems receiving critical services. Appropriate reimbursement is critical to maintaining an adequate provider network, as well (4, 5). High-quality, well-coordinated, and consistent services: CSHCN benefit from evidence-based health care services provided in the context of a “medical home” that assures high quality, well-coordinated care (1, 2, 4). Family-centered care: Families are the most central and enduring influence in children’s lives, and most of children’s care depends on their families carrying out agreed-upon management plans. Families’ values, beliefs, goals, and priorities should help guide care plans, and families should be included as partners in all health care decision-making (1, 3, 4). Early and continuous screening: Systematic screenings for special health care needs beginning early in children’s lives have the potential to reduce long-term consequences of some chronic conditions. Such screenings help identify problems early and can provide an opportunity to assess the needs and strengths of families, as part of providing tailored and family-centered care (3, 4). Inclusion: Providing CSHCN with opportunities for inclusion with other children in academic, social, and recreational settings is critical to their development and can maximize achievement and quality of life (6). Support for adulthood transition: As CSHCN age, they need support from their health care, educational, and social service systems to successfully transition to adulthood. For example, they may need assistance to move from school to work or post-secondary education, from pediatric care to adult health care, and/or from family dependency to self-sufficiency (1, 4). Financing of care: Families of CSHCN must navigate a complicated web of service systems with dueling eligibility criteria and confusing payment policies. This can result in delayed or denied services for children and financial hardship for families. State policy must work toward a unified, efficient, and comprehensive payment system for health care and developmental services, as well as ensuring adequate funding for public systems serving CSHCN (1, 2, 4, 7). For more information, see kidsdata.org’s Research & Links section and LPFCH's program for Children with Special Health Care Needs. 2. Bachman, S. S., et al. (2015). The care coordination conundrum and children and youth with special health care needs. Catalyst Center & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Retrieved from: http://www.lpfch.org/publication/care-coordination-conundrum 3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration. (2013). The National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs Chartbook 2009-2010. Retrieved from: http://mchb.hrsa.gov/cshcn0910 4. Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs. (2014). Developing structure and process standards for systems of care serving children and youth with special health care needs. Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Retrieved from: http://www.lpfch.org/publication/standards-systems-care-children-and-youth-special-health-care-needs 5. Gans, D., et al. (2013). Assuring children’s access to pediatric subspecialty care in California. UCLA Center for Health Policy Research & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Retrieved from: http://www.lpfch.org/publication/assuring-children's-access-pediatric-subspecialty-care-california 6. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2015). Occupational therapy’s role in mental health promotion, prevention, and intervention with children and youth: Inclusion of children with disabilities. Retrieved from: https://www.aota.org/~/media/Corporate/Files/Practice/Children/Inclusion-of-Children-With-Disabilities-20150128.PDF 7. Schumacher, K. (2015). Children’s health programs in California: Promoting a lifetime of health and well-being. California Budget and Policy Center & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Retrieved from: http://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/childrens-health-programs-in-california-promoting-a-lifetime-of-health-and-well-being Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP) California Children's Services Redesign, UCLA Center for Health Policy Research Catalyst Center, Boston University Center for Advancing Health Policy and Practice Center for Parent Information and Resources, Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) Center for Studying Disability Policy, Mathematica Policy Research Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs: Professional Resource Guide, 2014, Maternal and Child Health Digital Library Children's Regional Integrated Service System (CRISS) Disability Rights California Family Voices Got Transition: Health Care Transition Resources, National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health: Program for Children with Special Health Care Needs Maternal and Child Health Bureau: Children with Special Health Care Needs, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) Support for Families of Children with Disabilities Analytic Guidance for the California Children’s Services (CCS) Program, Stanford Center for Policy, Outcomes, and Prevention Assuring Children’s Access to Pediatric Subspecialty Care in California, 2013, UCLA Center for Health Policy Research & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health, Gans, D., et al. Children with Disabilities, 2012, The Future of Children Children with Special Health Care Needs in California: A Profile of Key Issues, 2013, Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health, Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative Children with Special Health Care Needs: With Population-Based Data, Better Individual Care Plans, 2015, Pediatrics, Van Cleave, J. Health Care Coverage and Financing for Children with Special Health Care Needs: A Tutorial to Address Inequities, 2016, Catalyst Center, Wilson, K., et al. Hidden in Plain Sight: California Children Using Long-Term Care Services, 2015, Learning Partnerships & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health, Brousseau, R., & MacDonald, S. Immigrant Families, Children with Special Health Care Needs, and the Medical Home, 2016, Pediatrics, Kan, K., et al. In Their Own Words: Improving the Care Experience of Families with Children with Special Health Care Needs, 2015, Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health & University of California, San Francisco, Hughes, D. Patient- and Family-Centered Care Coordination: A Framework for Integrating Care for Children and Youth Across Multiple Systems, 2014, Pediatrics, American Academy of Pediatrics, Council on Children with Disabilities & Medical Home Implementation Project Advisory Committee Standards for Systems of Care for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs, 2017, Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health, Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs & National Academy for State Health Policy The 2020 Federal Youth Transition Plan: A Federal Interagency Strategy, 2015, Federal Partners in Transition Workgroup The Care Coordination Conundrum and Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs, 2015, Catalyst Center & Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health, Bachman, S. S., et al. More Data Sources For Impact of Special Health Care Needs on Children & Families Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1363
__label__cc	0.65928	0.34072	Lost in Suburbia: Attack of the frozen forehead Tracy Beckerman More Content Now May 8, 2019 at 8:29 AM May 8, 2019 at 8:29 AM About five years ago I noticed that the shallow lines on my forehead had started to morph into wandering rivers. Since I wear my hair very short, there wasn’t really any way to cover them up and I complained to my husband that I was starting to look old. “How old do you think you look?” he asked. “Around 50,” I replied. “You are 50,” he said. “Yes, but I don’t want to look 50.” “What’s wrong with looking 50 when you’re 50?” he asked. “I’d rather look 40.” “But you’re not 40,” he said. “I know that,” I said. “I just want to look younger than I am.” “Just tell everyone you’re 60 and they’ll think you look really good for your age,” he said. Without two x chromosomes, I knew there was no way in the world my husband would understand my concerns. So, I sought out the counsel of my 50-year-old friends who all, mysteriously, happened to have smooth foreheads. They also all had eyebrows that didn’t move, but I overlooked that because their foreheads were so smooth. The secret, they said, was to get a shot of botulism in my face to smooth everything out. I’m not sure why I agreed to inject a known toxic substance into my forehead, but they all seemed pleased with the results, so I decided to give it a shot … no pun intended. I made an appointment with a dermatologist, got the shot, and then a funny thing happened. I discovered that I had a muscle weakness above one of my eyes that had heretofore gone unnoticed ... until I got the shot. Unfortunately, when the miracle forehead smoother interacted with the secret muscle weakness, it created something far worse than small lines in my forehead. It made one of my eyebrows drop. So now, instead of looking like a gracefully aging 50-year-old woman, I looked like Mr. Spock. Naturally, this wasn’t really the look I had been going for. I went back to the dermatologist to register my complaint and ask if there was a way to get me to look like a human again, instead of a Vulcan. She said that there was nothing she could do and another shot could possibly make it worse. I was stuck that way for six months. Then she held up her hand, told me to “Live Long and Prosper,” and sent me on my way to boldly go where no middle-aged woman with a droopy eyebrow had gone before. I assumed she meant the mall. I figured I could probably find a solution there, and if not, there was nothing like retail therapy to make you feel better when you look like an alien. Unfortunately, if I had thought that covering up small forehead lines were hard, covering up a droopy eyebrow was darn near impossible. First I tried getting oversized sunglasses to cover the problem. But when I wore them inside I couldn’t see and kept walking into things. Clearly having a fat lip would not improve upon the eyebrow problem. Then I considered getting an eye patch. But I was pretty sure that looking like a pirate wasn’t much of an improvement over looking like a Vulcan, plus I would have to walk around saying “Argh,” and “Shiver me timbers” all the time. Finally, I consulted the smartest woman I know. I called my mom and told her about the shot of botulism and the droopy eyebrow and Mr. Spock, and after some thoughtful consideration, she came up with the most logical conclusion. Stay inside. For more Lost in Suburbia, Follow Tracy on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LostinSuburbiaFanPage and Twitter @TracyBeckerman.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1365
__label__cc	0.709305	0.290695	Grandfather loses third of his body weight Updated: 1:27 PM PST Dec 7, 2017 Jack Freeman says he doesn't want to go back to where he was a year ago.Get the full story in the video above. Jack Freeman says he doesn't want to go back to where he was a year ago. Get the full story in the video above.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1367
__label__wiki	0.745543	0.745543	Deadline to register to vote is Oct. 6 Meridian Township officials are reminding voters that Oct. 6 is the statewide deadline to register to vote on the Nov. 4 ballot. Deadline to register to vote is Oct. 6 Meridian Township officials are reminding voters that Oct. 6 is the statewide deadline to register to vote on the Nov. 4 ballot. Check out this story on lansingstatejournal.com: http://on.lsj.com/1sp0L6F Lansing State Journal Published 6:52 a.m. ET Sept. 24, 2014 \| Updated 4:25 p.m. ET Sept. 24, 2014 Deadline to register to vote is Oct. 6.(Photo: Getty Images/Brand X) Greater Lansing area residents have just days left to register to vote for November's general election. The statewide deadline to register to vote is Oct. 6 for the Nov. 4 general election. Residents can register at Secretary of State branches or their local government or county clerks' offices. Voters must be at least 18 years old and be Michigan residents. To qualify for absentee ballots, residents must be at least 60 years old, physically unable to vote in-person or out of the state on election day. Those who can't vote in-person for religious reasons, or are in jail awaiting arraignment or trial, may also qualify for absentee ballots. Absentee ballot applications are due 2 p.m. Nov. 1. Those qualified for absentee ballots can vote in-person at clerks' offices until 4 p.m. Nov. 3. Sample ballots can be viewed online at http://www.michigan.gov/vote. Read or Share this story: http://on.lsj.com/1sp0L6F Police investigating homicide in south Lansing Scientists: Deadly heat to increase in Michigan LGBTQ student group joins lawsuit over Williamston policies Why #BlackGirlMSU went viral and what it means Bangos wants to be your favorite breakfast spot on wheels Lansing releases details on trash policy changes	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1370
__label__wiki	0.570571	0.570571	Hillshire Brands in talks with suitors Tyson Foods, Pilgrim’s Pride A package of frozen Tyson chicken nuggets, left, a package of Hillshire Farm sausage and the Pilgrim’s Pride logo on the side of a company vehicle are shown. Hillshire Brands is holding separate talks with Pilgrim’s Pride and Tyson Foods as the two meat processors engage in a bidding war for the maker of Jimmy Dean sausages and Ball Park franks. (Paul Sakuma and LM Otero, Associated Press) By Ricardo Lopez Hillshire Brands Co. said Tuesday that it is conducting separate talks with suitors Tyson Foods Inc. and Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., which are competing to buy the maker of Ball Park franks and Jimmy Dean sausage. Pilgrim’s Pride confirmed Tuesday that it has increased the price it is willing to pay for Hillshire Brands to $55 a share, or about $6.7 billion, topping the bid made Thursday by Tyson Foods of $50 a share, or $6.1 billion. On May 27, Pilgrim’s Pride made an unsolicited bid for the Chicago food company of $45 a share, or about $5.5 billion. Industry experts say Tyson and Pilgrim’s Pride, which is owned by Brazilian meat processor JBS, are trying to expand beyond the sometimes volatile sector of fresh meat and get into the more stable and more profitable prepared food business. Tyson, the largest U.S. meat processor by sales, and Pilgrim’s Pride, the world’s second-largest chicken producer after Tyson, are vulnerable to weather and other adverse events that squeeze beef, pork and poultry supplies. The offers require Hillshire to abandon its plans to buy Pinnacle Foods Inc., owner of brands such as Duncan Hines, Mrs. Butterworth’s and Vlasic pickles. Hillshire shares rose $5.08, or 9.5%, to $58.65 on Tuesday, above the Pilgrim’s Pride offering price. Tyson shares were down $1.32, or 3%, to $42.08. Pilgrim’s Pride shares declined 58 cents, or 2.2%, to $25.34. ricardo.lopez@latimes.com Twitter: @rljourno Ricardo Lopez Ricardo Lopez is a former staff writer for the Los Angeles Times. Transfers of canisters filled with nuclear waste resume at San Onofre After a ‘near-miss’ last year, Southern California Edison said it is confident transfer operations will go smoothly. Stocks fall, snapping a five-day win streak Stocks on Wall Street ended broadly lower Tuesday, breaking a five-day winning streak for the S&P 500 index. Tech companies took some of the biggest losses.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1371
__label__wiki	0.79878	0.79878	Stanford top seed in NCAA women’s water polo tournament at USC By Gary KleinStaff Writer Stanford is the top-seeded team in the NCAA women’s water polo championships that begin Friday at USC’s Uytengsu Aquatics Center. UCLA (25-4) is seeded second and defending champion USC (24-3) third in the eight-team tournament that concludes with Sunday’s final at 5:30 p.m. Stanford (22-1), led by senior two-meter player Annika Dries and drivers Kiley Neushul and Maggie Steffens, opens play against No. 8 Indiana (23-5). UCLA, which features goalkeeper Sami Hill, the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation player of the year, plays No. 7 UC San Diego (27-10). Driver Monica Vavic and two-meter player Kaleigh Gilchrist lead USC against No. 6 UC Irvine (24-7), which features utility player Danielle Warde, the Big West Conference player of the year. Fourth-seeded California (19-8) plays No. 5 Arizona State (15-10) in the other first-round game. All matches will be streamed live online through ncaa.com. Gary Klein covers the Los Angeles Rams for the Los Angeles Times. ‘Did they just do thaaat?’ Lakers parodied in ‘Family Matters’ intro A sportsbook online site parodied the revamped Lakers lineup by placing the players into the intro of the popular ‘90s sitcom “Family Matters”. Goalie Cal Petersen signs contract extension with Kings Cal Petersen signed a three-year contract extension with the L.A. Kings worth $858,833 annually.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1372
__label__wiki	0.876146	0.876146	National Geographic: U.S. Indictment Accuses South African Brothers of Trafficking Rhino Horns Safari outfitters allegedly duped hunters into paying extra to illegally shoot rhinos. for National Geographic U.S. authorities today announced the indictment of the alleged kingpin of a South African rhino poaching and trafficking syndicate, Dawie Groenewald, and his brother, Janneman, and their company Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris on multiple charges, including conspiracy, money laundering, and wildlife crime. The Groenewald brothers own and operate Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris, an outfitter that organizes and conducts trips in private hunting areas in Botswana, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, including at their 10,600-acre (4,300-hectare) game farm, Prachtig, about 40 miles (60 kilometers) south of the town of Musina, in South Africa's Limpopo Province. U.S. authorities will be seeking to extradite the brothers from South Africa. According to the 18-count indictment, between 2005 and 2010 the Groenewald brothers duped nine American hunters at their ranch into illegally shooting rhinos. The brothers would then cut off the horns and sell them on the black market in Asia. The Groenewalds and their safari company solicited American hunters at large regional sportsmen's shows, including Safari Club International conventions. They also donated hunts to local chapters of Safari Club International in Kansas City, Missouri, and a National Rifle Association convention in Louisville, Kentucky. They later offered hunters add-ons, such as the chance to shoot rhinos for additional fees (typically around $10,000). The outfitters said those rhinos were "problem" animals that were "dangerous" and "aggressive" and could be hunted legally. (Related: "Q&A: Can Airlifting Rhinos Out of South Africa Save the Species?") The Groenewalds said that although the hunters couldn't export a rhino's horn as a trophy, they could measure it and take photographs and videos of the hunt and of themselves posed with the dead animal, which could then be submitted to record books. The Groenewalds and Out of Africa also offered Americans the chance to conduct "green" hunts, when the hunter would shoot a rhinoceros with a tranquilizer gun and then pose for photographs with the sedated animal. The Groenewalds, however, never obtained the necessary permits, and they also concealed the fact that the hunts would be in violation of South African law. After photos were taken, the Groenewalds or their staff would cut off the horns with chainsaws or knives and sell the horns in Asia. In essence, they earned profit twice: once for the sale of the hunt and again when they trafficked the horns. Long Reach of U.S. Law "These defendants tricked, lied, and defrauded American citizens in order to profit from these illegal rhinoceros hunts," stated George Beck, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama. "Not only did they break South African laws, but they laundered their ill-gotten gains through our banks here in Alabama. We will not allow United States citizens to be used as a tool to destroy a species that is virtually harmless to people or other animals." The Groenewalds and Out of Africa are being charged under several U.S. laws, including the Lacey Act. The Lacey Act is a powerful legal tool that makes it a crime to knowingly sell in interstate and foreign commerce wildlife that was taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of foreign law. In this case, it refers to selling animal hunts that violated South African law. (Related: "For Rangers on the Front Lines of Anti-Poaching Wars, Daily Trauma.") "This case is intended to send a message to outfitters and professional hunters: The long reach of U.S. law will catch up to you if you involve our country and our hunters in criminal enterprises abroad," says Jean Williams, Deputy Assistant Attorney General at the U.S. Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division. "If you sell your illegal hunts here, you are subject to prosecution here, regardless of where the hunt takes place. "This case is also a cautionary tale for American hunters. As a consumer market, we have a special obligation to make sure that we are following the rules designed to protect both U.S. and foreign wildlife." Cooperation From South Africa During the investigation into this illegal hunting scheme, U.S. authorities received substantial cooperation from South Africa's National Prosecuting Authority and the specialized endangered species unit within the organized crime unit of the South African Police Service, known as the Hawks. "The fact that defendants used American hunters to execute this scheme is appalling—but not as appalling as the brutal tactics they employed to kill 11 critically endangered wild rhinos," said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe. "South Africa has worked extraordinarily hard to protect its wild rhino population, using trophy hunts as a key management tool. The illegal hunts perpetrated by these criminals undermine that work and the reputation of responsible hunters everywhere." Groenewald Charged in South Africa Dawie Groenewald is the head of a rhino poaching and trafficking syndicate known in South Africa as the "Groenewald Gang" or "Musina Mafia." He was arrested in 2010 along with ten others, including his wife, veterinarians, and professional hunters. (Neither Janneman Groenewald nor Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris was included.) The South African indictment is 637 pages long and charges the group with 1,872 counts of illegal hunting, dealing in rhino horns, racketeering, money laundering, and fraud. (Related: "1,000+ Rhinos Poached in 2013: Highest in Modern History.") According to the book Killing for Profit, by Julien Rademeyer, Dawie Groenewald alone faces 1,736 counts that stem from his allegedly having illegally sold at least 384 rhino horns over a four-year period, having killed more than 39 of his own rhinos for their horns, and illegally dehorning more than 80 others. That case has dragged on for almost four years, with trials postponed several times. The most recent, set for July 2014, was postponed to August 4, 2015, to allow conclusion of a civil suit regarding the constitutionality of current regulations for endangered and protected species. The Groenewald group allegedly made about $6.8 million from the illegal sale of rhino horn. According to the affidavit submitted by South Africa Police Service Colonel Johan Jooste, Dawie Groenewald managed the syndicate from 2006 to September 2010 while the others helped in pseudo-hunts, translocating and dehorning rhinos, making false applications for permits, and selling the horn. (Related: "Why African Rhinos Are Facing a Crisis.") Groenewald Interviewed In an interview detailed in Killing for Profit, Dawie Groenewald expressed confidence that he will beat the South African case. "They [the South African prosecutors] will eventually come and say there has been a mistake on a permit here, or something wrong there, let's sort it all out. Let's make arrangements for a fine. "I am not a poacher," he told Rademeyer. "That word makes me sick. It is not necessary for me to poach a rhino. "I don't enjoy killing rhinos," he continued. "But I'm killing them because of the system. We are forced to shoot them because that is the only way the trophies can be sold and exported. You have to kill the animal to sell its horns." He went on to tell Rademeyer that he makes a lot of money from hunting, saying, "For me, to do these hunts is very good money. It is really good money." Operation Crash The U.S. indictment is part of Operation Crash, an ongoing multiagency effort to detect, deter, and prosecute those engaged in the illegal killing of rhinos and the trafficking of their horns. The operation is led by the Special Investigations Unit of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement, in coordination with the U.S. Department of Justice. Operation Crash takes its name from the term "crash," which describes a herd of rhinos. So far, there have been 26 arrests and 18 convictions, with prison terms as long as 70 months. The indictments against the Groenewalds and their company are the first of Operation Crash that involve the direct killing of wild rhinos. Those convicted include Zhifei Li, the "boss" of three antique dealers who obtained and smuggled rhino horn out of the U.S. into China on his behalf; Qiang "Jeffrey" Wang, who smuggled Asian artifacts, including "libation cups" made from rhinoceros horn and ivory; and Michael Slattery, Jr., an Irish national who illegally trafficked rhino horn throughout the United States, and is alleged to belong to an organized criminal group engaged in rhino horn trafficking. As of October 14, 868 rhinos had been poached this year in South Africa alone. Yet the numbers are really far worse. Cases like the ones against Dawie and Janneman Groenewald and Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris are not included in those figures. "What we're seeing here is added to those awful statistics," Williams noted. "It's even larger than what's documented." In sentencing Zhifei Li in New Jersey, U.S. District Judge Esther Salas reflected on the seriousness of rhino horn trafficking charges. "The reality is there is a need to send a message to society, to those that deal in this market, this black market, that if you are apprehended, whether you are smuggling old rhinoceros horns, horns for black rhinoceros, or some white tusks from elephants, if you are doing this, and you are internationally exporting these materials, you are going to face severe and swift punishment." View this article on National Geographic. Posted in Africa, National Geographic, Rhinos, The WildLife Radio, Wildlife Trade	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1373
__label__wiki	0.990425	0.990425	Rugby Football Union agrees three-year deal with National Football League The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced a partnership with the National Football League (NFL) which will see the professional American football league play a minimum of three regular season games at Twickenham Stadium over a three-year period. The deal, which is a first-of-its-kind for the RFU, will start in October 2016 with the selected teams for this game being revealed later this year. The agreement will also give the NFL the opportunity to stage two additional games over the same period. Chief commercial & marketing officer, RFU, Sophie Goldschmidt, commented: “We are delighted to welcome the NFL to Twickenham; a stadium that has played such an integral role in what has been the biggest Rugby World Cup ever." “The NFL has a strong and growing fan base in the UK, and this, combined with the investments we've made in our stadium will give fans more opportunities to experience the action first-hand at a world-class venue." “We look forward to working with the NFL on this partnership.” Mark Waller, executive vice-president of international, NFL, added: “We are committed to continuing to grow our sport in the UK and believe that adding Twickenham Stadium to our roster of host venues in London is further evidence of that commitment." “We are very excited to give our fans the opportunity to enjoy NFL action at another world-class venue famous for attracting loyal and passionate fans from across the globe.” The announcement comes after the NFL recently disclosed that it had extended its relationship with Wembley in a deal that will see the stadium stage at least two regular-season games a year until 2020. Tags: American Football \| National Football League (NFL) \| Rugby \| Rugby Football Union (RFU) How will the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games change sports law in Japan? - Episode 30 Hot topics Facing In-House Counsel for NFL Teams and U.S. Federations The global players’ and athletes’ association for professional sport - UNI World Athletes explained Rugby League player Daley Williams receives four year ban for steroids Sports Law Advisors	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1376
__label__wiki	0.904434	0.904434	Ian Payne "Cycle Couriers Are A Fatal Accident Waiting To Happen" 9 October 2017, 10:04 \| Updated: 9 October 2017, 10:05 This caller used to run a courier company, he stopped using cyclists after one of his employees killed a girl at a zebra crossing. Kim Briggs died in hospital in February last year, a week after she was hit by a cyclist in east London as she crossed the road during her lunch break. Charlie Alliston, who was 19 at the time, was riding a fixed-wheel track back without a front brake, rendering it illegal to be ridden on the road. Discussing the issues surrounding cyclist and pedestrian safety, Ian Collins spoke to a caller who used to run a courier company. He decided to stop using cycle couriers after one of his employees killed a girl at a zebra crossing. He said: "We had quite a few cycle couriers. The incident that made me stop using them in my industry was that one of our cyclists killed somebody at a zebra crossing. "He was deemed to be at fault, it was his fault, it was accepted. But that poor girl's family didn't get any compensation because he wasn't insured. "It literally is an accident waiting to happen." Watch the full conversation above.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1377
__label__cc	0.709973	0.290027	Corinne Natel Superluminal 19 The First Time I Met You Lagoon Idylle Lagoon Idylle 3 Elysian 2 Eden Garden Emerald Garden Corinne Natel is a contemporary artist, based in North West London, specialising in abstract mixed media paintings. Corinne is inspired by landscapes, nature, cities, travel, fashion and media. Her work investigates colour, form, space and texture. Working with a variety of mixed media, a blank white canvas takes on a new form through the expression of energy and begins to develop a life of it's own and a new entity, aiming to create vibrant and emotive works that allude to another world. Corinne has sold works in the UK and internationally, for homes, offices, hotels, restaurants and cruise ships; exhibited in solo and group shows at contemporary galleries, as well as at a London Hotel and leading Art Fairs.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1379
__label__wiki	0.543342	0.543342	IV. Access to the Law Home/Our Current Projects/Legal Capacity, Decision-making and Guardianship/Discussion Paper/Summary of Issues for Consultation/IV. Access to the Law IV. Access to the Lawarodrigues2017-03-03T18:34:59+00:00 A. Preventing, Identifying and Addressing Abuse and Misuse of Powers by Substitutes FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TOPIC, SEE THE DISCUSSION PAPER, PART FOUR CH I Substitute decision-makers, whether appointed through POAs, guardianship, or the hierarchical list in the HCCA, have significant statutory obligations, although the exact nature of these obligations differs depending on the decision-making domain (e.g., property, personal care, treatment decisions). For example, substitute decision-makers for property management are fiduciaries, and must carry out their duties diligently, in good faith, with honesty and integrity, for the benefit of the individual. The legislation sets out standards for decisions, as well as procedural duties that include explaining the substitute’s powers and duties to the individual; encouraging the individual’s participation in decision-making; and fostering regular personal contact between the individual and her or his supportive family members and friends. As well, guardians and persons acting under a power of attorney must maintain records of their decisions. The LCO has heard widespread concerns that in practice, substitute decision-makers often have a poor understanding of their roles and responsibilities, so that the practice of substitute decision-making may fall far short of the intent of the legislation. As well, some substitutes may use the powers allocated to them under the law to abuse, exploit or neglect the individual whom they are supposed to serve in good faith. Problems of misuse and abuse may be the result of a number of short-comings in the legislation itself, as well as in policy and practice. Education and information: The legislation does not provide any formal mechanisms for ensuring that substitutes are aware of the statutory requirements and understand their roles and responsibilities. While substitute decision-makers are obliged to explain their powers and duties to the individual, there are no mechanisms for ensuring this takes place. Individual monitoring: while guardians and persons acting under powers of attorney must keep records of their decisions, there is no proactive mechanism for regularly reviewing these accounts, and identifying and addressing potential issues. Investigation of abuse: The PGT has an obligation to investigate allegations that an individual is lacking legal capacity and that serious adverse effects are occurring as a result. Such investigations may result in the appointment of the PGT as a temporary guardian. While stakeholders support these investigative powers, concerns have been raised that greater resources and scope for investigation may be required for these powers to have their intended effect. Seeking redress: Available mechanisms for challenging the exercise of powers by a substitute decision-maker and holding substitutes accountable are not practically accessible for many individuals, due to the costs of taking action, the confusing nature of rights enforcement mechanisms, and power imbalances between individuals and their substitutes. Remedies: Even successful proceedings regarding abuse by substitute decision-makers may be able to provide only limited remedies to the victims. For example, once an individual’s assets have been misappropriated and spent, there is little that can be done to restore the victim to their original financial status. In developing mechanisms for accountability for substitutes, it must be kept in mind that this role is most often undertaken by family members and friends, who do not necessarily have access to many resources or supports in carrying out this role and are not compensated for it. A careful balance is required to ensure that measures to prevent, identify and address abuse and misuse do not make this role unnecessarily difficult for those who are acting in good faith and attempting to comply with the law. Options for reform include mandatory information and education programs for substitute decision-makers; regular reporting requirements for guardians; proactive “visitor” or auditing programs; the provision of supervisory powers to the PGT or some type of monitoring office; expanded complaint and investigation systems; or greater restrictions on financial transactions by substitute decision-makers. Please share your thoughts on any or all of these questions: 1. Are there ways in which laws, policies or practices for addressing abuse through legal capacity, decision-making and guardianship laws could be better coordinated with general provisions for addressing abuse of those who tend to fall within this area of the law? 2. Are there specific information, education or training initiatives that could be integrated into law, policy or practice to ensure that individuals and their substitute decision-makers better understand their rights, roles and responsibilities, and if so, how might these be implemented? 3. Are there mechanisms that could be added to law, policy or practice to improve monitoring and oversight of substitutes, such as enhanced duties to report or account, “visitor” programs for persons under substitute decision-making, or other types of supervisory powers? If so, which mechanisms would be most desirable and how might these be practically implemented? 4. Are there new mechanisms for complaints or enhancements to the PGT’s existing investigatory powers that would be effective and appropriate for addressing concerns regarding abuse or misuse of the powers of substitute decision-makers? If so, which mechanisms would be most desirable and how might these be practically implemented? 5. Are there mechanisms that could be put in place to reduce loss or damage to individuals through abuse of substitute powers, such as limits on conflict transactions, provision of authority to financial institutions to freeze accounts where abuse is suspected, or expanded requirements to post bonds or security? If so, which mechanisms would be most desirable, and how might they be practically implemented? 6. Are there other reforms to law, policy or practice that should be considered to prevent, identify and address abuse or misuse of the powers of substitute decision-makers? B. Supports to Accessing the Law: Navigation, Problem-Solving and Voice FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TOPIC, SEE THE DISCUSSION PAPER, PART FOUR CH III As was explored at length in the Framework projects, persons with disabilities and older persons often experience barriers in accessing their rights under the law. Challenges include attitudinal barriers on the part of service providers or embedded in service systems; the inherent difficulties in navigating large and complex bureaucracies, especially for individuals who are in any way vulnerable or marginalized; power imbalances between those who provide services and those who receive them; and the inevitably occurring imperatives within large institutions, including resource constraints and conflicting institutional goals. All of these barriers and challenges must be understood in the light of the broader context in which older persons and persons with disabilities are more likely to live in low-income and experience social isolation and lack of opportunities for participation. The need for supports to ensure effective access to the law was identified during the development of the current legislative framework, and was initially addressed through the Advocacy Act and accompanying provisions in legal capacity and decision-making laws. This ambitious scheme was repealed prior to any extensive implementation, as being too costly and bureaucratic, and potential intruding on families and private rights. Currently, there are a number of formal, professional mechanisms for providing supports and advocacy for those directly affected by this area of the law. This includes the designated rights advisers under the MHA and the Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office; “section 3 counsel” who may be appointed to represent persons whose legal capacity is at issue in a proceeding under the SDA and who does not have legal representation; legal aid services, particularly those provided to individuals in proceedings before the CCB; and specialty legal clinics like the Advocacy Centre for the Elderly and ARCH Disability Law Centre. While the current system is not without advocacy and support mechanisms, it is also true to say that many individuals who are vulnerable due to disability, isolation, power imbalances or other factors are navigating a complex legal and service delivery system without access to formal supports. The services and supports that exist are fragmented and limited in scope. Two of the major concerns identified during the LCO’s preliminary consultations were the difficulties individuals face in navigating systems and the challenges that service providers face in assisting them in doing so, together with concerns that the system lacks effective mechanisms for ensuring that the rights set out in the legislation are respected. These concerns may be considered as directly linked to the lack of access to independent, knowledgeable information, advice and navigational assistance targeted to those who are directly affected by the law and their supporters. A review of some of the legal capacity decision-making systems of other jurisdictions, and of supports and advocacy provided to other vulnerable populations in Ontario reveals a wide array of approaches to the provision of supports. These include holistic, independent, institutional public advocacy programs, such as Ontario’s Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth; embedded institutional supports such as the Independent Mental Capacity Advocates that England and Wales employ to assist individuals who lack capacity to make important decisions about serious medical treatment or transition to long-term care and who do not have family or friends to assist them; or agency-provided supports, such as Ontario’s Adult Protective Services Workers. 1. What types of supports are most important for assisting persons falling within this area of the law to understand and assert their rights? Should the focus of supports be on provision of accessible, timely and appropriate information; assistance in navigating complex systems; supporting affected individuals to articulate their values and wishes; support to advocate for their rights; or some other needs? 2. What can be learned from the history of the Advocacy Act to guide reforms to the provision of supports for persons falling within this area of the law? 3. Are there ways to strengthen existing supports for accessing rights under legal capacity, decision-making and guardianship laws, including rights advice, section 3 counsel and legal aid services for persons falling within this area of the law? Are there ways in which these supports could be expanded to reach a broader range of needs? 4. What can be learned from supports to accessing the law in other jurisdictions or in other Ontario programs? 5. Should supports be provided proactively, or upon the request of the individual? Does this differ at various points in the system? 6. Who should deliver supports to accessing the law in this area? For example, should supports be provided through community agencies, a specialized public institution, or embedded institution-specific supports? C. Information, Education and Training FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TOPIC, SEE THE DISCUSSION PAPER, PART FOUR CH IV The SDA and HCCA are complicated statutes, reflecting the diversity both of the contexts in which they operate and the individuals that they affect, as well as the complexity of the issues they address. The statutes take a nuanced approach to “capacity” and attempt to balance competing needs, such as accessibility with procedural protections, and promotion of autonomy with protection of fundamental security. The result is a system that can be difficult to understand, not only for individuals who are often encountering it in moments of significant stress and difficulty, but for professionals who are expected to apply the law effectively. The SDA and HCCA currently include some requirements and supports for information, education and training. Capacity assessors under the SDA must meet education and training requirements prior to designation, as well as fulfilling ongoing training requirements. Persons who are identified as legally incapable through a capacity assessment or evaluation may be entitled to rights advice or rights information. Guardians and persons acting under POAs have a duty to explain their powers and responsibilities to the person they are representing. In addition, many organizations have created informational materials about the requirements of the law, and are providing ongoing information and education sessions for professionals, institutions, advocacy organizations and individuals. Throughout the LCO’s preliminary consultations and research, one of the most frequent concerns raised has been the pervasive lack of understanding of the legislation, including its fundamental principles, the roles and responsibilities of all parties, and the processes for assessing capacity, appointing substitute decision-makers, and seeking redress. This lack of understanding extends to individuals directly affected, families and friends acting as substitute decision-makers, service providers who must apply or implement the legislation, and professionals who regularly interact with it. This misunderstanding and lack of awareness of the law has widespread and significant consequences, particularly given the impact of these laws on fundamental rights. In considering the provision of information to individuals directly affected and their families, it must be kept in mind that they are often encountering the law at times of crisis or severe stress. As well, persons with disabilities and older adults face a range of barriers to accessing and understanding information arising out of their socio-economic status, living arrangements, the particular nature of their disabilities, or the effect of barriers and discrimination on their life courses. During the LCO’s preliminary consultations, service providers, community agencies and advocacy organizations that regularly interact with individuals directly affected by these laws indicated that they regularly find themselves attempting to provide informational or navigational assistance to these individuals, or confronted with concerns regarding potential abuse. They spoke about the challenges that they face in addressing these needs, and urged the LCO to identify ways to improve their ability access expertise and advice on the complex issues that arise in their work. Professionals and service providers responsible for implementing the legislation may face their own barriers to information, including competing demands for their attention, institutional resource shortages, and shortfalls in the available training or resource materials. Lack of adequate understanding of the law and its underlying principles among this group is a key source of the gap in this area between the legislation and its implementation that has raised concerns for many stakeholders. 1. What are the priorities for reforms to law, policy or practice to ensure that individuals who encounter the capacity, decision-making and guardianship system have meaningful access to the information that they need to preserve their autonomy to the greatest extent possible and to understand and enforce their rights? 2. What are the priorities for reforms to law, policy or practice to ensure that persons appointed as substitute decision-makers adequately understand their roles and responsibilities, and have the skills necessary to effectively perform their often challenging roles? 3. What are the priorities for reforms to law, policy or practice to ensure that service providers adequately understand their roles and responsibilities under the law, have a meaningful understanding of the circumstances and experiences of the individuals affected by these laws, and have the skills necessary to effectively interpret and apply the law? 4. What reforms to law, policy or practice could help to ensure that professionals carrying out core responsibilities under the SDA, MHA and HCCA have the skills and expertise required to perform their roles, and that this skill and expertise is kept current? 5. How could information, education and training related to legal capacity, decision-making and guardianship be better coordinated and made more accessible to the general public and all those seeking it? D. Dispute Resolution and Rights Enforcement FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TOPIC, SEE THE DISCUSSION PAPER, PART FOUR, CH II Mechanisms for raising complaints and resolving disputes are extremely important to the effectiveness of any law. Without effective means to enforce the rights and responsibilities set out in the statutes and to resolve disputes between those falling within the scope of the law, the law may amount to little more than a statement of aspirations. The fundamental nature of the rights at stake in legal capacity, decision-making and guardianship law makes these mechanisms even more important. Ontario’s Consent and Capacity Board (CCB) is a specialized, expert, independent administrative tribunal. It conducts hearings under the HCCA regarding findings of incapacity, the appointment or termination of representatives to make decisions, departure from “prior capable wishes”, and review of compliance of substitute decision-makers with the requirements of the statute. It also has jurisdiction to review findings of incapacity to manage property under the SDA and the MHA. Members of the CCB are made up of lawyers, psychiatrists and members of the public. The CCB is mandated to make decisions expeditiously: hearings must commence with seven days of an application, and decisions must be issued within one day of the conclusion of a hearing. Hearings are conducted across the province and in a variety of venues, including hospitals, long-term care homes and private residences. Individuals making application to the CCB have access to special supports such as rights advice or rights information, and representation through legal aid. Some issues related to the HCCA may also be dealt with in other venues. For example, complaints related to capacity assessments or evaluations may be directed to the regulated health college to which the assessor or evaluator belongs. Most issues arising under the SDA, including disputes regarding the appointment or termination of a guardian, applications for a guardian or person holding a power of attorney to pass accounts, or requests for directions on matters related to a guardianship or a power of attorney, proceed for hearing to the Superior Court of Justice. The Court is the key venue for dispute resolution, through its powers related to appointment and termination of guardianships, and to provide directions. Through these powers, it can also act to enforce the statutory rights of individuals, for example by removing a guardian that has acted inappropriately, or narrowing the scope of a guardian’s powers. The provisions of the SDA give the Court broad discretion to address concerns. For example, its powers to “give directions” apply to “any question arising in connection with a guardianship or power of attorney”. Upon an application for the passing of accounts, the Court has wide remedial powers. It can, for example, order a reassessment of the individual`s capacity, suspend or terminate a power of attorney or guardianship, direct the PGT to bring an application for guardianship, or appoint the PGT or another person to act as guardian pending the determination of the application. Some issues related to the SDA may also be dealt with in other venues. For example, abuse via power of attorney may in some cases be an appropriate matter for the criminal justice system. The preliminary consultations identified rights enforcement and dispute resolution under the SDA as among the most pressing areas for substantial reform in this area of the law. It is important to keep in mind that persons with disabilities and older persons may face a range of barriers in asserting their rights. Their disabilities may make it difficult for them to access and evaluate information in the forms in which it is usually presented. They may be dependent on the institution or individual against whom they wish to raise a complaint. They may not have the financial, physical or psychological resources for lengthy or expensive proceedings. Ontario’s capacity, decision-making and guardianship laws and processes are complex, and so individuals may find them hard to navigate. The use of judicial proceedings for addressing matters under the SDA reflects the gravity of the rights at issue. However, it is also true that court processes tend to be expensive, complicated, intimidating, lengthy and adversarial. They may be an impractical option for many individuals. As well, professionals who work in this area have noted the tendency for disputes to become entangled in dysfunctional family dynamics, which the current processes under the SDA are ill-suited to resolve. Some jurisdictions have created specialized forums for resolving disputes and issues related to legal capacity, decision-making and guardianship. England and Wales, for example, have created a “Court of Protection” with specialized procedures and access tailored supports. The Australian state of Victoria’s Civil and Administrative Tribunal has a special “list” for capacity and guardianship matters, providing expert, rapid, relatively informal and low-cost adjudication in this area. There may be ways of improving current disputes resolution and rights enforcement mechanisms by simplifying procedures, or providing additional supports or services. The province of Alberta, for example, has created a system of Review Officers who review applications for guardians or co-decision-makers, meet with the affected individuals and prepare a written report for the Court. It has also been suggested that as many of the disputes currently arising under the SDA have their roots in complex social and family dynamics, there may benefits in exploring ways to better link litigants and potential litigants to mediation, information and social services. During the LCO’s preliminary consultations, stakeholders emphasized the value of the independent, expert, flexible, relatively non-adversarial and expeditious dispute resolution provided by the CCB. Concerns have been raised both that the CCB is too adversarial and thereby may undermine the therapeutic relationship (from the physician perspective) and that it is insufficiently adversarial and may pay insufficient attention to procedural protections (from the applicant perspective). Some suggested that while the CCB’s tight timelines do constrain opportunities for mediation, there may be creative options for incorporating dispute resolution services into the mandate of the CCB, or for more extensive use of the techniques of active adjudication, in order to better promote responsive resolutions and to respect the particular nature of the rights and issues at stake in this forum. Concerns have been raised regarding appeals from CCB determinations of incapacity. For a variety of reasons, appeals may languish, and where determinations of incapacity are paired with involuntary admission to a psychiatric facility, individuals with mental health disabilities may find themselves “warehoused” for lengthy stretches. 1. What goals should be the priorities in considering reforms to Ontario’s dispute resolution and rights enforcement mechanisms for this area of the law? 2. Are there practical reforms to law, policy or practice that would promote more timely resolution of appeals from decisions of the Consent and Capacity Board? 3. Are there practical and effective means of further incorporating alternative dispute resolution mechanisms into the processes of the Consent and Capacity Board that would both promote responsive resolutions and respect the particular nature of the rights and disputes at issue? 4. Are there practical and effective means of amending the hearing processes of the Consent and Capacity Board, such as for example incorporating active adjudication, that would both promote responsive resolutions and respect the particular nature of the rights and disputes at issue? 5. Are there additional powers for the court or specialized supports or services for persons attempting to access their rights or resolve disputes under the Substitute Decisions Act that would improve the accessibility or effectiveness of current dispute resolution processes in this area? If so, what reforms would be most appropriate and how could they best be implemented? 6. For dispute resolution and rights enforcement under the Substitute Decisions Act, are there lessons to be learned from tribunal systems in other jurisdictions?	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1380
__label__wiki	0.808243	0.808243	Our CD's Formed in 2002 Kyloe Records was started to help preserve and promote the folk music and folklore of Scotland and the north of England. Mike has been collecting and recording folksong and music for over 40 years and many of his recordings have appeared over the years on a number of record labels, including Topic, Home-Made Music, Veteran and Musical Traditions Most of Mike's pre-2000 collection is now housed in the National Sound Archive, a part of the British Library, with copies in the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library, the archive of the English Folk Dance and Song Society. Mike is perhaps best known for his recordings of English gypsies, although his Appalachian recordings - from Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee - have also brought him international recognition. All Kyloe CDs are carefully recorded and edited, and come with full background information about the performers and their material. It is also our policy, whenever possible, to use local artists for our sleeve designs. Why Kyloe? Kyloe Records are named after the Kyloe Hills, a chain of low, wooded hills in north Northumberland, not far from where we live. They lie inland from Holy Island (Lindisfarne) and it was here that monks hid the remains of St Cuthbert (Patron Saint of Northumberland) when Viking longboats were prowling closeby. There are many beautiful walks in the woods and St Cuthbert's Cave, where his remains were hidden, is easily accessable. For further information, contact us at © 2017 Kyloe Records	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1381
__label__cc	0.741002	0.258998	Gayle McFarlane joins compliance specialists Cordery Gayle McFarlane joins Cordery as partner Expansion at Cordery continues with Gayle McFarlane joining the firm as partner. An experienced lawyer with a keen interest in technology, McFarlane brings with her an excellent track record across the compliance landscape; especially in areas related to data protection and security, freedom of information and digital. McFarlane joins Cordery from international commercial law firm, Wragge Lawrence Graham Co LLP, where she was director in the commercial and projects practice group. “Gayle’s knowledge of the compliance landscape, extensive experience in dealing with these and related matters, especially on behalf of consumer businesses – combined with her natural interest in all things technology and digital – makes her a great addition to the Cordery team,” Jonathan Armstrong, partner at Cordery, said. “For our clients, many of whom are household names, embedding compliance into their day-to-day operations is a high business priority. Their compliance challenge is growing driven by the increasing intricacy of legislation and the emerging risks that cyber security, the internet and use of open source software in business present.” With over 15 years’ experience, there are very few aspects of the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act that McFarlane hasn’t advised on. She was a contributing author to the Law Society’s Data Protection Handbook in 2008. McFarlane has successfully helped clients to develop compliant solutions that allow organisations to exploit data for competitive advantage while safely adhering to the various legislations. She regularly advises consumer brands on complying with the UK consumer law regime, including how to consolidate good practice across different channels and structures such as online marketplaces. Well-recognised for her enthusiastic and animated style, McFarlane is also highly rated as a commercial trainer on topics including e-commerce, data protection compliance and tricky procurement issues such as agile software development. She started her legal career at Eversheds LLP as a trainee in 1999. McFarlane commented: “Technology presents huge business advantages that no organisation can ignore, but its side effects (including cyber security threats, data and privacy breaches, and most importantly keeping your cutting edge business model within the scope of slightly more archaic, but still applicable, legislation) are undoubtedly challenging. “The innovative use of tech both in and for business genuinely interests me and I’m excited to be working with clients at Cordery to help them devise solutions that will enable them to benefit from these developments while protecting their businesses by making compliance a routine part of their operation”.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1388
__label__wiki	0.928579	0.928579	Irwin Mitchell surfs to silver in BITC social responsibility rankings Senior partners at Legal Futures Associate Irwin Mitchell have hailed the national law firm’s achievement in being named alongside some of the biggest businesses in the country for its commitment to social responsibility in a prestigious league table. In just its third year of involvement with the high-profile benchmarking initiative run by Business in the Community (BITC), Irwin Mitchell saw its ranking rise for the third consecutive year, placing it among some of the UK’s leading companies for its commitment to diversity, community, the environment and pro bono legal work. Assessors for the BITC’s Top 100 Corporate Responsibility Index raised the leading national law firm’s rating from bronze to silver – placing it alongside major brands such as Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Barclays and Centrica in the standings and making it one of only a handful of UK law firms to appear on the list at all. The index is used to manage and measure the effectiveness of the social responsibility activities that businesses are carrying out in relation to issues such as their environmental impact, community and diversity. The aim is not only for organisations to demonstrate the impact of their efforts, but also to give businesses the chance to compare their work with other firms and see how they can improve. Commenting on Irwin Mitchell’s strong performance, group chief executive John Pickering praised all of the staff involved in the law firm’s various efforts for their numerous social responsibility successes in the past 12 months. He said: “Whether it is volunteering in the community, encouraging and communicating green ideas within the firm or offering pro bono advice, everyone at Irwin Mitchell has worked hard to both improve and increase the firm’s social responsibility efforts. “It is an outstanding achievement to make a leap into the silver performance band within three years of getting involved in the BITC Corporate Responsibility Index and particular praise needs to be given to our social responsibility committee, which developed the strategy that has played a key role in taking the organisation to such new heights. “As a firm we have always recognised the importance of embracing and making a positive impact on all of the communities we serve across the UK. “However, the hard work is unlikely to stop here, as we are of course keen to make even further leaps forward over the coming year in order to demonstrate our long-standing and continued focus on these important issues.” Irwin Mitchell is involved in a range of successful initiatives across the varying elements of social responsibility, including: Volunteers in Sheffield and Manchester help primary school children below the average standard of reading ability to enjoy books, while a similar scheme sees youngsters helped with maths. The Glasgow office produced a CD to raise funds for the pupils of St Joan of Arc School, who have a range of learning difficulties. An internal listening group was created for minorities working in the firm in order to foster an inclusive environment. Irwin Mitchell supports Pride events in Sheffield, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds annually. The firm also participates in schemes including BITC’s Culture Kids programme, which educates school pupils on cultural diversity. The firm has achieved the ISO14001 environmental standard through cutting its waste, improving recycling and introducing a number of energy-saving initiatives. Irwin Mitchell also reports its carbon footprint annually. Founder of the Legal Sector Alliance, a collaborative movement of law firms who are aiming to reduce their impact on the environment. Irwin Mitchell is a sponsor of the National Pro Bono Centre, which opened in November 2010 and acts as a hub for pro bono charities and community groups across England and Wales. Volunteers from the firm provide advice at university law clinics at De Montfort University, University of Sheffield, Manchester University and Northumbria Law School.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1389
__label__wiki	0.551371	0.551371	Instructor News IS THE PLASTIC WATER BOTTLE ENVIRONMENTAL ENEMY NUMBER ONE? by Margo White We have a drinking problem – a bottled water drinking problem. Despite the safety of tap water, billions are spent every year on water in plastic bottles and billions of those bottles end up littering our environment. As individuals, is there anything we can do? Svalbardi iceberg water is harvested from 4000-year-old Norwegian icebergs – if you’re liquid enough (financially speaking) you can buy a bottle with an accompanying “gift tube” online for €69.96 ($US74.00), or a two-pack with two gift tubes for €129.90 ($US138.00). Svalbardi is among the most exclusive drinking waters currently available. Apparently it tastes like water. It was only a matter of time before water became a status symbol. Over the last two decades, bottled water has become the fastest growing drinks segment in the world, with sales now 100 times higher than they were in 1980. The global market is estimated to have increased nine percent annually in recent years, and is expected to reach $280 billion by 2020. Chlorination made drinking water safe for the masses about a century ago, an advance that has saved millions of lives. But what we were once so grateful for we now take for granted, with many of us turning our backs on the tap. What’s going on? Bottled water tastes better than tap water, doesn’t it? In his book, Drinking Water, James Salzman argues the modern bottled water industry can be traced back to Perrier (owned by Nestlé). Whether Perrier’s success can be put down to its taste, said to derive from its natural source, or a very expensive advertising campaign involving the seductive baritone voice of Orson Welles remains a moot point. Salzman says Europeans might have palates refined enough to tell the difference between different mineral waters, but a number of studies involving British and American participants have shown most people can’t. (Europeans are apparently bewildered at the way Americans fill their water glasses with ice – blocks of frozen tap water that melt – which they say interferes with the original taste.) Either way, most bottled water sold in the US and UK is sourced from a tap rather than a spring or well. It is then repurposed and rebranded as something “purer”. Companies use a process called “reverse osmosis“; they take the water, run it through a complex purification process, then add minerals back in (known in industry slang as “Pixie Dust”). In short, bottled water is often highly processed tap water. Better bottled water than a sugary soft drink, right? Of course, and in 2016 sales of bottled water overtook sales of sugary soft drinks in the US for the first time. This shift from soft drink to bottled water suggests people are “rehydrating” without putting themselves at risk of diabetes. The bottled water industry is at pains to suggest it’s providing a kind of public health service – that it’s not pitting bottled water against tap water, but bottled water against soft drinks. Many disagree. In his book, Bottled & Sold, Peter Gleick points to numerous examples of the bottled water industry subtly or overtly undermining public confidence in tap water. He also points out that, at least in the US, tap water is subject to more regulatory checks than bottled water. There have been some unfortunate instances of tap water contamination, such as the crisis that began in 2014 when the town of Flint, Michigan, changed its water source. (Officials failed to apply corrosion inhibitors to its drinking water, causing lead from ageing pipes to leach into the water supply.) That was a very public disaster, but such instances are rare. Rather than turning to bottled water, critics argue, we should be ensuring public water supplies are safe. Where have all the drinking fountains gone? Not long ago we were able to quench our thirst at public water fountains, but these are rapidly vanishing. Gleik describes a notorious example of the demise of the public water fountain (and the commodification of water) when the University of Central Florida opened its new football stadium in 2007. The $54 million stadium, built to accommodate over 46,000 people, had no drinking fountains. On opening night, the only water available for overheated fans was in $3 bottles – which ran out before the match ended. Eighteen people were taken to hospital and another 60 were treated for heat-related illnesses. “If any movement away from bottled water is going to succeed, there must be good, safe and conveniently available alternatives,” writes Gleick. “The irony is that the more bottled water we buy, the more invested in it we become and the more susceptible we become to industry efforts to convince customers that bottled water is not a luxury, but a necessity.” But what about recycling? The bottled water industry argues that water bottles (that is, polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, bottles) are 100 percent recyclable. The question is, how many are? Estimates vary, depending on country or state, and who is providing the figures. But Gleick says 75 percent of US water bottles end up in the nation’s landfills, or are tossed aside as litter. In Ontario, Nestle estimates about 70-75 percent of water bottles are recycled, but the Ottawa-based Polaris Institute, a non-profit organization that “challenges the influence of corporations on government and public policy,” estimates only 14 per cent of them are. The group Environmental Defence said up to one billion plastic bottles (that is, all plastic bottles other than just water bottles) don’t get recycled in Ontario each year. According to figures released in 2016 by Recycle Now (a UK campaign group funded by the government’s waste advisory group, Wrap), UK households only recycle half of the plastic bottles they use. Again, these figures include all plastic bottles, but their estimates indicate that an average of 35.8 million plastic bottles are used every day by UK households, but only 19.8m are recycled each day. While the figures might be disputed, there is no denying that plastic water bottles (along with plastic waste in general) are ending up in landfill and our oceans. We might like to think they’ll all be reconfigured as jerseys or shoes or salad bowls, but billions of them aren’t. In the meantime, the ten best things we can do as individuals are: Take a blind taste test and see if you can really tell the difference between tap and bottled water Try to drink tap water whenever you can Install a water filter if you find the tap water taste too strong Refill bottles rather than buy new ones Always recycle plastic and glass Invest in a home soda maker for carbonated water – you’ll save money, too! Complain in restaurants or movie theatres if they only offer bottled water If it doesn’t have one already, lobby your workplace for a recycling scheme Lobby your local authority for more public drinking fountains Investigate what is really happening to your recycled waste, and lobby for improvements IS THAT FLIGHT WORTH IT? by Margo White Learn More THE TOP PLASTIC POLLUTER THE PROBLEM WITH PLASTIC by Margo White BAN THE MICROBEAD by Margo White Green Living View All	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1391
__label__cc	0.53558	0.46442	The involvement of the Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immaculate with Little Flower School began in July 1926, when the general administration decided to take responsibility for staffing a school in the newly formed parish of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and Little Flower in San Antonio's Westside. There was no money to build a school, but two classrooms were erected in the Church using a partition and using folding doors helped obscure the altar. After classes were dismissed, the doors were opened and the desks were arranged at both sides so the Church would be ready for the evening and following morning. This was the routine twice a day for two years. Over the years, as enrollment increased the Sisters were able to secure other locations within the proximity of the Church to teach school. In May of 1946, with enrollment at three hundred and twenty students, the Carmelite Fathers of San Antonio at last were able to build a new parochial grammar and high school to accommodate six hundred students. The structure was constructed of Indiana Limestone to match in style and material of the Shrine of the Little Flower. It was hoped that this school would be a center of spirituality, which would radiate in the life of each and every student the depths, the beauty, and the splendor of the life of St. Therese. Today, Little Flower School continues to serve students throughout the San Antonio area. Little Flower places a strong emphasis on religious instruction and helps children grow in understanding of Christian living. The school is staffed with qualified faculty who are dedicated to academic excellence and strong Christian values. Strong parental involvement is encouraged. The school is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department and recognized by the Texas Education Agency while implementing curriculum which meets and exceeds TEA requirements. Little Flower is open to ALL children regardless of race, color, creed, sex, or ethnic background. The Holy Spirit Sisters have continued to administer and staff. Little Flower School since 1926. In 2002, lay administrators began to work in the school. Under capable direction the school continues to thrive and students continue to excel both in spiritual and academic areas. Both staff and students alike take seriously the advice of St. Therese, our patroness, to do the ordinary extraordinarily well and to spread God’s love to all with whom we come in contact.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1396
__label__cc	0.694454	0.305546	Local Talk: Interview with Bobbi Brown August 26, 2017 Robert Genovese Bobbi, we share a love of Montclair, New Jersey. I first discovered Montclair as a teenager visiting the area as a dear friend lived here on Upper Mountain. How did you come to find Montclair and make it home? My husband found Montclair through a friend when we first started dating. We took a ride from the city and fell in love with its charm, parks and the way of life here. However, as a full time working makeup artist in New York, I had no intention to move to the suburbs. My husband convinced me to just look at houses and we fell in love with the first house we saw. We bought a total fixer upper and kept our apartment in New York for a while but then never stayed there once we moved. What are the characteristics of our community that sealed the deal for you to stay long term? The culture, the diversity and the lifestyle that exists here, all sealed the deal for me. We got a dog, and quickly met other dog parents. Then we had our first baby, and met other parents. By the time we had all three boys we were meeting great friends, joining swim clubs and the golf club, and adopting the amazing Montclair school system. The relaxed, casual feel of the restaurants and the plethora of culture, music, art that exists here makes this town what it is. I'm optimistic about the ever-changing stores and businesses that is keeping this town current and really great. We're living in an era of entrepreneurism where technology as well as readily available information has paved the way for many to succeed across a variety of business and social cause platforms. What do you think of of the current environment, provided you built a brand at a time when the leaping off point was a lot more challenging? Social media has certainly changed the game as far as getting the word out to as many people as possible, as fast as possible. With that said, you have to be careful as these platforms of course come with some downfalls regarding the integrity of the content being posted as well as the filters and retouching that set up unattainable ideas of 'perfection' and affect people’s self-esteem. Overall however, especially in regards to local businesses, social media has provided an affordable way to market and bring awareness to your brand. User Generated Content has helped propel small, local companies to be authorities in the area and has greatly contributed to their successes. For anyone setting out to follow their passion in business, could you share a mantra to keep steady focus and continued perseverance? Find what you love to do, work hard at it, take risks, surround yourself with good people, and be nice to everyone. You are a catalyst behind Reach Out Montclair. What was the reason you joined this critical platform? What does it say about a brand's need for greater levels of community mindfullness? A bunch of us saw the need for a support system to help the underserved who live in town and whose children go to our schools. There are so many of us who are grateful for the lives we've been able to lead with support from others and we love giving back this way. The Montclair couple Officer Garth and his wife Maddie had actually been doing all of this on their own. We are supporting their mission to help the community. What does local mean to you? (philosophically, socially, environmentally) Local means supporting small businesses in our town. I have been a regular customer of so many local businesses, and the relationships that evolve with each of these are convenient and very meaningful to me. Tell us one thing about Montclair that only you or few people know. Yogi Berra always rented a horse and buggy on Thanksgiving for his grandchildren and the neighborhood kids every yea I love to start my day with an espresso, with a tablespoon of LAIRD coconut powder. In Blog Tags Local, Montclair, Bobbi Brown, Coffee, Makeup, Local coffee Local Talk: Q+A with Josh Miller from Montclair State University May 3, 2017 Robert Genovese I'm inspired at the entrepreneurship and innovation coming out of Montclair State University. Tell me a bit about about MixLab and the genesis of the department. The MIX Lab is an innovation center at MSU where students utilize technological tools to think and create in an innovative manner. We all work on projects both personal and with outside clients to help push the boundaries of innovation and entrepreneurship. Altarik and I work extensively in the lab to create innovate on everything from packs to other ceramics. The classes taught in the lab allow students the opportunity to think in the world from a different perspective. To us, Innovation is not just about using the newest technology, but to continue moving forward in progress and problem solving. What are the types of projects that draws your team's interest? All our work in the lab has led us to form our own startup Urban Nomadic (urbanomadic.com). We are drawn to projects that have a strong ecologically and design focus. Plus collaboration is really important to us. Being able to work with other designers and innovators is critical to us. What are some of the team dynamics that create a healthy and effective approach to innovation? I’d be lying if I said we (Altarik and myself) didn’t argue a lot. Yet, I find that it’s the respect through arguing that keeps us working together so well. We aren’t just colleagues and co-workers. We are friends and brothers. having that kind of dynamic among us allows us to be able to work through differences and come to great innovations. The other key part for us working others — we are always looking for people who want to design something transformative. In our current environment, what brands or people do you consider to be driving true innovation? I don’t search for innovation among well-known large corporations. I’m surrounded by innovation both here in the lab and in the local design ecosystem of Montclair. Through the lab we have met people who have some brilliant ideas and have seen some products that are surprisingly non-mainstream. MADLab, the architects behind the design of the Local coffee shop are a great example — they taught us a lot. When it comes to people, I’d like to point towards the two people that have taught me how to be an innovative individual: Iain Kerr and Jason Frasca — the co-directors of the lab What are some of the short term as well as long term goals for the department? The MIX Lab as well as Altarik and I strive to continue the development of innovations. In the short term, there are a few projects we are working on, some of which could become viable businesses in the future. As Urban Nomadic we are working on a long-term project to eliminate fashion waste through the use of revolutionary biodegradable materials. Altarik and I would love to continue to develop our innovative custom ceramics with restaurants or individuals who are in search of some really unique designs. In regards to the MIX Lab’s long term goals, we are continuing to expand our capabilities as well as who we contact and how to continue to foster innovation. What were your major product design inspirations for developing and ultimately building the bowls? When creating this design, I was given the guideline of coffee culture while incorporating local celebration. I believed that if I dug deep into the roots of coffee culture I would find ideas that were no longer “the norm”. This is where the bowl concept came into play. Originally, this bowl was designed as a coffee bowl, but the design had a few uncomfortable niches to it. I discovered along the way the idea of a known face on a cup or bowl and decided to try to create angles that were not usual in bowls. From this, I found a designer who had a work of art like the bowl and felt that I was on a good path. The rest of the design process comes from working closely with Rob and Adele to create a product that they would be proud to use and present. As for the local part, we found a river bank in Glen Ridge (with great help from an MSU professor) with an abundance of rich clay and believed that it was only fitting to use a little part of the world right here in creating these bowls. What were some of the challenges that your encountered along the way? Earlier, I spoke about learning new things as being a key goal. When I asked Altarik to join this project, I found very quickly that time was against us. When learning new skills, and trying to meet a deadline all at once becomes stressful, one tends to look at their partner for stability. That was something we did with each other constantly as we did our best to meet (and sometimes fail at meeting) deadlines and tasks. All in all, I would say this was a challenging project by nature, but well worth the time and effort. What were the most important takeaways for this project? The most important takeaways are that it is possible for local designers to do things that no one else can do. It was humbling to see Local so ready to put the bowls out for display and use. We learnt that we could do some much more than we realized at first: we could dig up local clays, we could design custom products, we could work with great clients like Local and that the design and architecture community is generous and supportive. Basically, we can away excited to continue this work of collaborating with others in the local community to develop new products and innovative concepts. Tell us something about design that very few or no one knows. This design is an accidental design. I was still learning to use the software in the beginning and was going for a different structure to represent known faces and used a feature wrong that presented me this shape. Sometimes accidents bring out the best products. Design is all about processes and truly anyone can be innovative. I think that we need to move away from the notion of a “creative genius” but instead look at things from a set out processes to get towards a place. Really, it is all about doing things and if you fail, the worst outcome is that you will learn from it. What is it about being in Montclair that supports and drives the program forward? It has a lot to do with the aspect of “Local”. In Montclair, there is a large culture of innovation and generosity from MSU to MadLab, to Local — everyone was more than willing to help us far beyond what we could ever have imagined. There is a community with a lot to teach and share. I find that Altarik and I connected well with Rob and Adele and that helped us to want to bring them a great product. For other students, here at MSU, it’s the passion of not only solving problems but creating new problems for worlds worth making and innovating that continues to progress the program. What does local mean to you? Local to us means the belief in what the community can provide to us and what we can give back in return. It is a symbol of support and love from people that we may know or soon meet that continue to help push in a positive direction. Local is the embodiment of positive goals with belief in each other. It is really about making and emerging with the things you have around you. We also believe that local is about sustainability and collaboration. Through our newest project, Urban Nomadic, we are not only looking to work for people who are trying to make a difference, but we are trying to make a difference ourselves through the use of renewable resources. Local is not just about the people, but also about the environment we share with everything in the world and our aim is to protect as much of that as possible. https://www.montclair.edu/entrepreneur/3d-printing/mix-lab/ Tags Local, Blog, Montclair, Community, Montclair State University, Feliciano School of Business, MIXLabDesign, Bowls, Pottery, Clay Local Talk: Q+A with our fine artist Maria Saidi February 14, 2017 Robert Genovese Tell us a bit about your background as a Fine Artist. As a young student, I studied at the Art Student’s League in NYC and went on to get a Fine Art degree at Parsons School of Design. I continued my studies here in Montclair with Gary Godbee. Who and what have been your inspirations? In art, my inspirations are too numerous to name but the standouts are John Singer Sargent, for his economy of line, Egon Schiele (Gustave Klimt’s student) for his raw and invasive expressions of the human figure, Franz Kline who is hands down the best abstract expressionist and Jenny Saville whose images are disturbingly imposing and beautiful. Can you tell us about a current passion project? I’m currently working on a painting that was inspired by the Women’s March in Washington. It’s an homage to the courageous women who worked, and continue to work, tirelessly to make strides in the fight for gender equality. How long have you been in Montclair? We moved to Montclair when James (husband) joined a practice here. We came from Manhattan where I was born and raised. What is your favorite part of being part of this community? All it has to offer- good people, good art, good food and access to Manhattan- in precisely that order. What does local mean to you? (local as a concept) “Near" home thereby comfortable and warm; a second home perhaps. Thank you so much for being a part of our narrative at Local. Your contributions have been so valuable to building our brand. What inspiration did you leverage in developing the logo? The logo was developed based on your vision and your requirements -the word LOCAL and arrows to suggest direction or compass points. All roads now lead to LOCAL. What are some words of wisdom to share? Honestly, it’s quite simple, be kind to people; the universe returns it in spades. And of course, what is your favorite coffee or tea beverage? Coffee- Espresso in any form. Tea - Rooibos website www.oddo-saidi.com Tags Local, maria, saidi, fine artist, logo, graphic design, parsons Local Talk: Q+A with our architecture and design firm - Madlab February 8, 2017 Robert Genovese What was the inspiration in founding Madlab? After working in other design firms for over 10 years, we felt ready to launch our own vision of a firm. MADLAB stands for Morozov Alcala Design Laboratory, and in a simple sense, that’s also our business plan. Two professionals willing to go beyond conventional practices in order to carry out innovative design. That was in 2003, and we’ve never looked back. We are definitely at our most creative and satisfied when we’re not just designing, but when we’re making and testing, and learning from that process. It was a no-brainer for us, really, and we probably have our immigrant families to thank for that! We inherited a solid work ethic with a sense of adventure and a tolerance for the unknown. It’s helped us find a balance between having a creative vision, and having the know-how and guts to execute it. Once we set out on our own, we soon realized there was a steep learning curve when it came to getting our design work executed by contractors. We became more and more frustrated, and moved to building prototypes, just to demonstrate that it could be done. Without a proper workshop, we set up a space to tinker wherever we could. In our basements, in our living rooms - wherever we could to carry things out. Today, Madlab is a hybrid design practice in a 2,000 sq ft space that is part office and part workshop. We love when clients come visit to see where all the magic comes together. They immediately get what we’re all about once they walk through our doors. What is about a coffee shop that piqued your interest? The sharper a client’s vision, the better more guiding power it offers us. This is key to a great outcome. With this project, we had the added benefit of knowing the town and seeing the chance to roll out something entirely fresh and unique to Montclair. A coffee shop is an open-ended program. It serves a social purpose in our communities. We wanted to hone this into an environment that isn’t just a backdrop, but adds to the conversation in very subtle ways. We deliberately created little touches throughout the space that catch your attention, but doesn’t overpower it. It’s how we wanted to see “Local” stand out from the crowd of other coffee shops around the world. The other thing that came through early on was that our clients Robert and Adele are great storytellers. They elevated that cultural aspect of taking a moment for a coffee, alone or with friends, as an important thing to do. Their hospitality background was heartwarming and important. Trusting us was the driving force - and ultimately the opportunity - to deliver something special. What is the biggest surprise looking back at when we started this project? Everything! We came into this project with our talent and dedication and an open-ended approach. Once we arrived at a schematic design, the rest was pure energy, blind faith and constant testing of ideas. It made the project fun! It all came together organically as we worked at a feverish pace. There were times when we could have taken shortcuts, but we stuck it out and it was worth it. What is that something special that you will take with you from this experience that you will take with you on your next journey? This was by far one of our fastest turnaround projects, and it could not have happened without an all-hands-on-deck design-build approach. It brought out the best in our staff. There’s not a single design element that wasn't touched in some way by our entire crew. There’s a real pride knowing your efforts are contributing to something bigger. ‘Local’ proved that this approach is not just good for our clients, it’s good for us, too. You want to evolve as a business and this project was a tipping point. We should be doing more of these projects. People want it, there is space for it. We also take away how vital it is to establish trust with our clients at the beginning, especially when there’s just no time for lengthy design reviews and revisions. It’s really easy for an unconventional process like this to unravel - having your clients’ trust is the only way through that. How can we best cradle their needs so it doesn’t become a crisis, but it becomes innovation? We’re excited to explore that more in the future. About Madlab Madlab is an award-winning and internationally published architecture firm noted for its research and innovative design services. More here: www.madlabllc.com Source: www.madlabllc.com Tags Local, Coffee, Montclair, COffee, Madlab, Talk, Blog	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1401
__label__wiki	0.970988	0.970988	Power tussle in Umno ahead of party general assembly, factions infected by ‘BossKu’ comeback BY EMMANUEL SANTA MARIA CHIN The ST claimed former party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) had apparently taken pointers from his former boss Datuk Seri Najib Razak, with talks of him ending his leave prematurely and returning to the fray having recently gained traction. — Picture by Mukhriz Hazim KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 — A power struggle among factions vying for top leadership posts within Umno has surfaced just months ahead of the party’s general assembly in November, a report has claimed. The eagerness shown by many to vie for top posts, as reported by the Straits Times (ST), was supposedly sparked by the revival of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak himself, who since losing the election has rebranded himself on social media. His “Malu Apa BossKu” slogan, said to be an attempt at vindicating himself from the slew of criminal court charges brought against him, has since gained traction with the younger Malay community, even recently releasing a music video and having previously speaking openly about returning to power. Najib’s presence, despite being slapped with multiple corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering charges over funds allegedly misappropriated from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), has also been credited by certain quarters as the clutch that gave Umno victory in three recent by-elections, the report further said. The ST also claimed former party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had apparently taken pointers from his former boss, with talks of him ending his leave prematurely and returning to the fray having recently gained traction. The report quoted Ahmad Zahid from over two separate occasions, where he said that “something big” was about to happen to the country, and when that happens he will return to lead Umno. “Look at ‘Bossku’, even though he was hit with accusations but he is the most popular in the country,” Ahmad Zahid was quoted saying, referring to Najib. “It is not about the pressure from the grassroots, but if I am needed, I will return and my services will be available everywhere,” the former deputy prime minister was further quoted in the report. Ahmad Zahid himself has been slapped with 47 charges of offences ranging from money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and corruption involving millions of ringgit belonging to Yayasan Akalbudi, a foundation he led. However, the revival of Najib, Ahmad Zahid, or other party warlords would, according to sources cited by the report, depends on current acting president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan’s push for party constitutional amendments. Party sources had revealed that Mohamad is supposedly an active proponent for amendments that will see leaders convicted of criminal offenses be disqualified from taking up any party leadership posts. The report also claimed a committee overseeing the process of these constitutional amendments is being headed by Mohamad’s ally and party vice president, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, with several officials publicly confirming the motion to bar convicted members. Support from two-thirds of the party’s delegates would be needed to see through the amendment, something many observers feel would be an uphill task considering the support available to party big fishes, who they saw as capable of amassing enough support to block the motion. “I want to see how they are going to sell this to the members,” Johor Umno deputy chief Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed was quoted saying in the ST report. “It’s the internal shenanigans of a party that doesn’t realise it’s in opposition now,” added the former deputy minister.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1402
__label__cc	0.535151	0.464849	Flexi hours for public hospital staff is not the solution UD54 \| Published: 2018-01-22 10:28:00+08:00 \| Modified: 2018-01-22 10:28:00+08:00 LETTER \| I thank the Health Ministry and director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah who recently announced the implementation of the flexible hour programme, an initiative proposed during the last budget in an apparent effort to prevent specialists from leaving government service to join the private sector. Make no mistake. With all due respect; my gratitude towards the announcement is not because of the new policy, but because the nation has been reminded once again that the state of our profession is not all that rosy in the government sector; it is in fact ailing and is in serious need of remedy. Instead of being a solution, the announcement was actually disappointing as it reflected yet again the superficial understanding and poor grasp of the root problems facing the medical profession in the institution. Speaking of irony: despite us boasting having one of the best healthcare systems in the world with provision of free universal healthcare to all patients, we are now left scrambling to look for source of funding with the introduction of GST imposed on various consumables, and the removal of the right to free branded medicines for pensioners. It’s an irony that millions have been spent to send specialists overseas to train in their various sub-specialty fields each year but when we are back, we are faced with a severe limited access to various specialised laboratory tests, equipment and medications due to the current financial constraint in our healthcare system. It’s an irony that we are involved in a lot of paperwork in implementing various government projects and policies in the name of restructuring and improving the healthcare system, yet we still hear of tertiary hospitals with collapsing ceilings, fires in ICUs, and broken down lifts. It’s an irony that thousands are sent to graduate from medical schools overseas, but are now left pondering on their futures, with no guarantees of permanent jobs. It’s an irony that in line with the World Health Organisation policy, the institutions are engaged actively in various meetings and discussions to eliminate tuberculosis, yet we have thousands of unscreened and unmonitored migrants crowding our country every day, carrying the risks of spreading the airborne diseases and further burdening our healthcare facilities. It’s certainly not an easy feat to get to where we are now; to get the licence to practice as a subspecialist or even a general specialist here, it could easily take us a total 10-15 years of commitment in studying and training after high school. Never mind the sacrifice of time and money that we have to endure, never mind the sacrifice of being away from family for serving the people in areas in need, never mind the paperwork that is consistently burdening us, and never mind the decent salary that we would get anyway without specialising, as long you have served the institution long enough. We were willing to train and stress ourselves because I believe majority of us would want to do ourselves and community a favour in improving the delivery and contributing to the development of a better healthcare system for the nation. When the institution that we work with is no longer able to guarantee these prospects both to us and the patients, but instead keep beating around the bush with many superficial policies, it’s just a matter of conscience that we move to the institution where we would be able to exercise our expertise more effectively. Yes, in the private sector we would only reach a certain subpopulation and there are definitely certain limitations there. But at least we can concentrate on what we are trained for and get rewarded for what we deliver. In the end we would still need to consider what is best for us and the family. The final irony is this: the ministry’s announcement has only helped me to make a more definitive plan for my own future and join the private sector. The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1403
__label__wiki	0.719314	0.719314	Mazda Egypt Sales Centers After Sales Centers Spare Parts Outlets GB Alashanak Google+ Facebook Instagram Youtube Mazda Motor Corporation is a Japanese automotive manufacturer that was founded by Jujiro Matsudain in 1920 in Hiroshima, in western Japan. The company started as a cork plant but later branched out into the production of a full-line of passenger cars, trucks, and buses, rapidly gaining considerable success and receiving recognition at world level. In 1930, the company produced its first vehicle the Mazda-Go, a three-wheeled open vehicle that resembled a motorcycle with a cargo-carrier at the back. Mazda’s popularity started to grow in the 1960s when the company was able to introduce its first real car: the Mazda R360. This was also the very same year in which Mazda has started developing the rotary engines. The 1980s witnessed the rebirth of Mazda and an upswing in sales sparked by successful new products. The 1990 model year saw the launch of a car that proved a huge hit. In the new millennium, Mazda has regained its stride as it has invested in new development. The Hiroshima-based automaker ranks as one of Japan’s leading car manufacturer and is currently focusing its attention on strengthening its branding and vehicle designs to take on the challenges that exist in the global automobile market. Mazda 3 HB Designed and developed by Icon Creations	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1410
__label__wiki	0.950024	0.950024	It's Bond versus Bourne again, but this time at the book store 26-May-2011 • Literary Their creators are long gone, but that hasn't prevented the publication of a new James Bond book and a new Jason Bourne book â on the same day. Adam Sherwin writes in the Independent about the thrilling showdown. Do you expect me to talk? No, Mr Bond, I expect you to revitalise the high street book trade by winning a deadly publishing battle with your greatest espionage rival. James Bond and Jason Bourne go head-to-head today with the launch of new novels that extend the narrative of the famous spies, who have long outlived their literary creators. Carte Blanche is the 25th Bond book published since the death of Ian Fleming in 1964. In a "reboot" of the franchise by the American thriller writer Jeffrey Deaver, Bond is reinvented as an Afghanistan veteran, thrust into a post-9/11 world where "the other side doesn't play by the rules anymore". Carte Blanche hits stores alongside The Bourne Dominion, the latest instalment in the adventures of the amnesiac assassin Jason Bourne. It is the sixth novel written by Eric Van Lustbader, since the death of Robert Ludlum, the Bourne creator, in 2001. "Continuations" of a best-selling series, authorised by the estates of the original authors, are giving publishers a much-needed boost at a time when high street chains like Waterstones are struggling to meet the challenge from online retailers. Hodder & Stoughton, UK publisher of Carte Blanche, took delivery of the first copies of the book at St Pancras International yesterday from a team of abseiling Royal Marines Commandos. Millions of copies will be dispatched to 20 countries. An initial UK print run of 230,000 copies has been ordered for the book, which is predicted to beat the sales of Devil May Care, the previous Bond "continuation" by Sebastian Faulks, which became Penguin's fastest-selling hardbook novel in 2008. Waterstone's is selling a signed, numbered and slipcased limited edition of Carte Blanche for Â£100. But Bond completists will want the Special Edition produced by Bentley, to mark 007's choice of the marque's Continental GT as his new favoured wheels. The 500 copies, set in a metal case, cost Â£1,000 each. Lustbader's Bourne novels, which pick up where Ludlum's trilogy left off, have sent sales of the series to an estimated 80 million copies. The publisher, Orion, is hoping that shoppers driven to bookstores by Bond will also leave with a new Bourne. "If the publishers get it right, they can create a franchise which operates in tandem with the new films and renews itself every two years," said Neill Denny, editor-in-chief of The Bookseller. "These are massive worldwide brands." However, Denny warned that the spy genre may never match its Cold War heights. "How do you reinvent the spy story in a world where drone pilots fight wars from the Nevada desert? It's not as romantic as Bond saving the world from a global holocaust." Faulks retained Fleming's period setting for his novel but Deaver opted for a contemporary storyline. He said: "When we sat down with the Fleming estate we decided it would be best to have Bond track down a modern villain. That would have more emotional impact for the modern reader." The next blockbuster in the "continuations" industry arrives in September, when Orion publishes a new full-length Sherlock Holmes novel, written by Anthony Horowitz, who was commissioned by the Arthur Conan Doyle estate. The new novels inevitably lend themselves to screen adaptations. Mr Deaver said: "I do write cinematically. It's a very visual book with sharp dialogue in exotic locations. I hope the Bond studio will have a serious look at it." Hence the contemporary setting. (The studios ignored Faulks's book, partly because of the period setting.) But who will win the battle between Bond and Bourne? "I don't see it as a competition," said Deaver. "I hope folks can still afford two books, or go to the library and read them." Denny believes Carte Blanche will have a head start with fans of the Fleming originals. "Deaver may be a better Bond choice than Faulks," he said. "He fits the plot-driven ethos of the Bond books whereas Faulks's approach is more literary."	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1417
__label__cc	0.508814	0.491186	The End of Poverty: An Interview with Jeffrey Sachs One of the world’s top economists offers a blueprint for transforming the developing world. Onnesha Roychoudhuri Photo: Arnie Adler In February of this year, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan remarked: “We will not defeat terrorism unless we also tackle the causes of conflict and misgovernment in developing countries. And we will not defeat poverty so long as trade and investment in any major part of the world are inhibited by fear of violence or instability.” The point was that a broader global security strategy needed to go hand in hand with a poverty reduction strategy. To that end, the UN set about drawing up its Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Adopted by all member countries in 2000, the MDGs aim to achieve everything from eradicating extreme poverty to ensuring universal primary education and basic health care access, all by the year 2015. In order to figure out how to reach these goals, Annan organized a panel of over 250 development experts to lay out practical strategies for promoting rapid development. Headed by economist Jeffrey Sachs, the panel published their final report in January of 2005. The report calls for both an increase in aid from Western countries and a reallocation of funding priorities in the developing countries themselves. The report also calls for more aid to be given on a local level. By bypassing governments, the UN hopes to spark more immediate and effective development. For instance, in one test case conducted in Kenya, UN funding went straight to the village of Sauri, where the schools were able to provide much-needed food for their students, and hence jumped in ranking from 68th to 7th in the district. Shortly after the release of the UN report came the publication of Sachs’ book, The End of Poverty, in which he laid out his own strategies for eradicating poverty by 2025. Sachs, who gained renown for advising Latin American and Asian governments on economic reform, has gained popularity as “can-do” economist amidst a cacophony of naysayers on development. But his optimistic attitude has also attracted quite a bit of skepticism. Why is it that decades of development economics haven’t achieved the elimination of poverty? What makes Sachs’ proposals so special? Is eradicating poverty a feasible goal to achieve in our lifetime? Sachs recently sat down with Mother Jones to discuss these issues. Mother Jones: What makes your plan to end poverty so different from the development efforts that were tried in the 1950s and 60s? Why hasn’t five decades worth of development work been very successful thus far? Jeffrey Sachs: I think so far there’s been a lack of appropriate effort, which includes many things. For development to work, rich countries need to help poor countries make certain practical investments that are often really very basic. Once you get your head around development issues and realize how solvable many of them are, there are tremendous things that can be done. But for decades we just haven’t tried to do many of these basic things. For instance, one issue that has been tragically neglected for decades now is malaria. That’s a disease that kills up to 3 million people every year. It’s a disease that could be controlled quite dramatically and easily if we just put in the effort. It’s truly hard for me to understand why we aren’t. MJ: What do you say to critics who argue that it’s a waste to put more money into a development system that hasn’t used that money very effectively thus far? JS: Well, we have to be smart about whatever we’re doing. But I’m quite convinced that, broadly speaking, economic development works. The main arguments of the Millennium Project Report, and the main argument of my book is that there are certain places on the planet that, because of various circumstances—geographical isolation, burden of disease, climate, or soil—these countries just can’t quite get started. So it’s a matter of helping them get started, whether to grow more food or to fight malaria or to handle recurring droughts. Then, once they’re on the first rung of the ladder of development, they’ll start climbing just like the rest of the world. MJ: So do you believe that past efforts, to get these less-developed countries on the “first rung,” haven’t been pragmatic enough? JS: Part of it is that many of these countries are invisible places, neglected by us politically, neglected by our business firms, by international markets, and by trade. We tend to focus on these countries only when they’re in such extraordinary crises that they get shown on CNN because they’re in a deep drought or a massive war, which is something that impoverished countries are much more prone to falling to. There haven’t been too many stories in our press about Senegal, Ghana, Tanzania, Malawi, or Ethiopia, other than when the disasters hit. And yet these are places that are in very deep trouble all of the time, but with largely solvable problems. And those are the kinds of the places that I’m talking about as being stuck in extreme poverty. MJ: If there’s been no real effort to draw the world’s attention to those places, is there any hope that funding will go there? JS: The world got side-tracked from development issues during the post-9/11 crisis period. During the war in Iraq there were bitter divisions in the world community, and the idea of being able to focus on the problems of extreme poverty or malaria or drought and chronic hunger in Africa were just not at the top of the world’s debate. But I think the tsunami in the Indian Ocean last December, in which we could all see the scope of the devastation on our television screens, shifted discussion towards the plight of the world’s poor. So now there are some positive signs. Tony Blair has pushed for an Africa Commission which just produced a report in March that focuses on poorest of the poor in Africa. There will be a UN poverty summit this September which is predicted to be the largest gathering of world leaders in history. And I’m traveling extensively around the world talking about these issues. So I think that even in our country, there is a growing discussion. MJ: I know that former World Bank employee and economist William Easterly has criticized your proposals and called for what he terms a “piecemeal reform” approach in which development efforts are carried out one step at a time, with subsequent evaluation. What is your response to this? JS: Basically, I don’t think that we should be choosing between whether a young girl has immunizations or water, or between whether her mother and father are alive, because they have access of treatment for AIDS, or whether she has a meal at school, or whether her father and mother, who are farmers, are able to grow enough food to feed their family and earn some income. Those all strike me as quite doable and practical things that can be done at once. I make the analogy that farmers, to grow their food, need good soil, sunshine, proper rain, and heat. If you don’t one of those, even if you have the other three, your crop is still not going to grow. A lot of life in a poor village is like that. If you have a clinic but you don’t have safe drinking water, or if you have safe drinking water and a clinic, but you don’t have bed nets to fight malaria, you just don’t get the kind of needs met and the basic quality of life that gives you a chance. I think that Bill Easterly misunderstands what I propose. I’m not proposing a single global plan dictated by some UN central command. Quite the opposite, I’m proposing that we help people help themselves. This can be done without legions of people rushing over to these countries to build houses and schools. This is what people in their own communities can do if we give them the resources to do it. MJ: Part of Easterly’s argument is that if you implement different strategies all at once, it will be difficult to isolate and understand which strategies worked effectively, and which did not. Do you share this concern? JS: I have been working with over 250 of my colleagues on the Millennium Development Report. Everybody here is an expert on a different thing. The soil scientists really know a lot about how to improve soil nutrients and the doctors really know a lot about how to keep children alive. The malariologists really know how to control malaria and the hydrologists really know how to get safe drinking water in a community. One doesn’t have to test whether it’s good to have more food production, or malaria bed nets or doctors or teachers. These are proven technologies. If we were introducing something new, that would be different, but ours is not an approach based on new discoveries, this is an approach based on the best of proven technologies. MJ: Some critics have expressed concern that the Millennium Goals may set unrealistic targets for certain countries. What if those countries fail to meet the specified level of development and then disillusioned donors decide to lower their funding? JS: First, it should be understood that the goals in most cases are set proportionate to a given country’s situation. So we’ll reduce by 2/3 the child mortality rate, or by 3/4 the maternal mortality rate. We’re not aiming at the same absolute standard in every country. I think that the other thing that is really important to understand is that as I have been working with the UN on this for the last 3 years and meeting leaders all over the world. What I’ve found is that their concern isn’t that the goals are too high. Exactly the opposite: They actually want these UN goals, they want them to be ambitious, and they want to be held to account. And they want their development partners, the developed world, to be held to account on following through on commitments. Again, this all goes towards pressuring rich nations to set aside 0.7 percent of GNP for development aid. That is not a goal that I set, or that the UN set, this is a goal that was adopted 35 years ago by the world community and the goal that was set again in the Monterrey consensus signed by the U.S. in 2002. MJ: What about aid being sent to countries that have a serious problem with corruption? Some have argued that large amounts of aid will merely prop up those regimes. Can poverty be eradicated while corrupt politicians are in office? JS: My experience is that there’s corruption everywhere: in the U.S., in Europe, in Asia, and in Africa. It’s a bit like infectious disease—you can control it, but it’s very hard to eradicate it. And yes, there are some cases where the corruption is so massive that unless you are really, really clever and come up with some radically new approach to the issue, you’re going to have a hard time accomplishing many development goals. It’s quite hard in a place like Zimbabwe, now, where the current government, in a quite despicable way, clings to power. Or, in a country where there is absolutely no transparency or where you have a family ruling violently to stay in power. It’s very hard to do a lot of the things that really need to be done to build an effective school system, a health system, and so on. I don’t have any magic solution for those situations. But, let me note that the world successfully eradicated small pox, and not just in countries that scored high on a governance index but in all parts of the world. This was an international effort which targeted a specific outcome undertaken by professionals using a proven technology and a very extensive monitoring system. And that’s the general model for our aid proposals. Nothing is done on trust. Everything should be done on a basis of measurement and monitoring. When you really focus, there are so many ways to be clever about how to do this to make it work better. Don’t just send money; send bed nets, send in auditors, make targets quantitative. There are a lot of tricks, a lot of ways, that if one is practical about this, one can get results. But what happens is that everyone’s wringing their hands about corruption without trying to solve practical problems. And right now, we’re not even helping the well-governed places, the places where we are capable of finding absolutely practical and effective approaches to turning help into real success on the ground. The basic issue is not to lecture about morality and governance. The basic issue is, is there a way for us to help to fight AIDS, TB, malaria, and other killers which are taking an incredible number of lives? I’ve seen these children dying, each time I visit these clinics. And these are absolutely preventable deaths. MJ: Now you suggest in your book that we need to assess ailing economies just as doctors assess patients. You call it “clinical economics.” Does the current academic curriculum for development economics provide a sufficient framework for educating people to ensure that the MDGs will be achieved by future economists? JS: No it doesn’t. I realized 10 or 15 years ago that the students in economics departments write dissertations about countries that they never stepped foot in because their advisor gives them a database from Nigeria or Kenya or some place else, and they do their thesis that way. That’s like becoming a doctor without ever seeing a patient. We don’t do case studies. We don’t train students to understand the differences across countries. There are a tremendous number of loose generalizations made all the time Similarly, people aren’t trained in the practical experiences of being operational. Sometimes people say, “We teach academic things, we don’t teach operational things.” But, frankly, to do development right, you have to do something that’s more like going through medical school and having a clinical hospital where you actually learn about different cases, and do case analyses. When something goes wrong, you study it. There are what are called “M&M rounds” in hospitals—morbidity and mortality rounds. When something doesn’t work, when a patient dies or doesn’t get better, the doctors get together to discuss the case. We don’t do that in academic economics. For me, the field is not properly organized right now to really take on these challenges adequately and I’m hoping that the field will become more like a clinical science. MJ: In your book, you recount some of your experiences in developing countries. In one passage you note, “One day in Goni’s office we were brainstorming and hit on the idea of establishing an emergency social fund that would direct money to the poorest communities to help finance local infrastructure like water harvesting, or irrigation, or road improvements. I picked up the phone and called the World Bank. Katherine Marshall, the head of the Bolivia team at the Bank immediately responded, “You’re right, let’s do this.” Why is it that a whole World Bank team specializing in Bolivia hadn’t come up with the idea that you had? JS: Well, sometimes they have ideas, sometimes I have ideas. It just so happened in this case that the idea came from me. But I do feel that in Washington over the last 25 years, especially during this era called “the structural adjustment era,” there hasn’t been a lot of actual problem-solving. There has been a lot of concern about budget-saving on the part of the rich countries. A lot of what was really happening in Washington had a subtext: “Keep poor people away from our taxpayers, tell them to tighten their belts, tell them to solve their own problems, tell them to keep sending their debt payments to us.” It was, in my view, a very unhappy and unsatisfactory period and there were, no doubt, a lot of creative people that were prepared to do a lot of things but they weren’t given assignments to do that. I was absolutely shocked and aghast when I learned that in the late 1990s the World Bank and other donors weren’t paying a penny to help treat people dying of AIDS. Rarely do rich countries say, “Look, we’re just not prepared to spend money to save poor people’s lives.” Instead, you get a lot of skepticism. “You can’t do this, this is impossible. We’re doing everything we can after all. We’ve tried everything. Let’s go slowly. Let’s do one thing at a time.” I don’t buy those arguments. I think that they all essentially stem from a vision that has been forced on the professional staff of these agencies because they have no money to spend. And they have no money to spend because in the end, the United States and other rich countries aren’t giving them the resources to enable them to think ambitiously enough. One of the reasons why that is, is because the American people think we’re doing everything we can be doing and frankly because they’re told that there’s nothing more we can do. MJ: Do you think the U.S. will ever agree to dedicate 0.7 percent of its GNP to development aid? JS: I don’t think that any leading politician believes we’re going to do that right now. It’s not the conventional wisdom. The way it’s going to happen is if the public tells the politicians, “Yes, we want to do this, we want to follow through on our word, it’s good for us, and it’s good for the world.” I’ve found in talks and discussion about the Millennium Project that people are very surprised to find out what the U.S. is and is not doing vis-à-vis the world’s poor. Opinion surveys show, and I find this verified in audiences, e-mails, and discussion groups, that people tend to overestimate U.S. assistance efforts, usually by a factor of about 25 or 30. People think that we give several percent of our annual income and several percent, maybe even a quarter of budget to foreign aid and they’re shocked to find out that it’s actually much less than 1 percent of our budget. They’re shocked to find that throughout Africa, the kind of practical investments that I’m talking about run to about 1 penny out of every $100 of our GNP. They can’t believe it, but that’s the unfortunate situation. When they find that out, and they see that we’re spending $500 billion on the military and only about $1 to $2 billion on investments in Africa, they’re concerned because I think that they feel this is probably not the best choice for America. MJ: What do you think of two recent proposed strategies—President Bush’s Millennium Challenge Accounts (MCA), and Britain’s International Financing Fund (IFF), proposed by Tony Blair and Gordon Brown—as means of promoting global development? JS: They’re both good ideas. But by now, the MCA was supposed to have dispersed $1.7 billion dollars, $3.3 billion in the second year, and $5 billion in the third year. It has missed all its targets. In three years, it’s only committed about $100 million dollars to one project. It has not yet been turned into a reality. Brown’s is also a very good idea. Unfortunately the U.S. basically said “no” to participation in that. I think the European countries will undertake the IFF, but not with any U.S. support. But the IFF is a very good concept—the idea is that Britain and six other countries have announced a timetable to reach a goal of dedicating 0.7 percent of their GNP to development by the year 2015. So what this would do is allow them actually to borrow against the rising trend so that they could frontload some of the money. What the Africa Commission, the Millennium Development Report, the World Bank and IMF have all found is that right now poor countries could usefully absorb a tremendous increase of money and use it properly. The IMF and World Bank recently released a report called the Global Monitoring Report which said that aid should be doubled. There is a professional understanding that the money is needed to break the poverty trap and save lives and that the money can be effectively used. Trump Stages Full-Blown, Racist Meltdown at “Made in America” Event The Worst Responses to Trump’s Racist Tweets	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1423
__label__wiki	0.721839	0.721839	HomeHondaNewsClassics First Honda In The U.S. Restored To Its Former Glory First Honda In The U.S. Restored To Its Former Glory product 2019-06-18 19:49:01 https://www.motor1.com/news/355438/honda-serial-number-one-us/ Honda Classics, classic, classic car Share on Twitter1 Share on Flipboard1 By: Greg Fink It’s N-credible. In the grand scheme of Honda-badged vehicles, the tiny N600 sits near the bottom of the totem pole. But the N600 in the video above isn’t just any N600; it’s the first automobile Honda imported to the United States. Haughty Hondas: Honda E More Specs Revealed: Has 50:50 Weight Distribution ⠀ Honda Mean Mower Hits 100 MPH In 6.285 Seconds, New Guinness Record Although the N600 wouldn’t officially go on sale in the U.S. until the 1970 model year, N600 serial number one is one of 50 N600s that Honda sent to the states in 1967 to test the vehicle’s viability in the marketplace. What sort of life serial number one led after testing completed remains a mystery, but it was in rough shape by the time Tim Mings took possession of it. Mings makes a living restoring N600s, and serial number one was in desperate need of an overhaul. But even Mings didn’t realize what made this beat-up green N600 so special. In fact, it took him a couple of years to scrape the gunk from the car’s serial number to reveal this N600’s provenance. Once restoration began, Mings and his colleagues made it their mission to return serial number one to its former glory, and the finished product was finally revealed months later at the Japanese Classic Car Show in Long Beach, California. No longer coated in a dastardly green hue, the restored car now sports the same shade of white paint it wore when it rolled into the U.S. more than 50 years ago. The N600 might not excite us in the same way other Honda-badged products do (we’re looking at you Civic Type R and S2000), but that doesn’t make it any less important to die-hard Honda fans. Without the N600’s success in the U.S., Honda’s best products might have never seen the light of day. So in a way, the N600 – and N600 serial number one, in particular – doesn't just take up a spot on the totem pole; it is the totem pole. classic classic car	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1424
__label__wiki	0.575427	0.575427	A Serious Car Accident Left Him With a Traumatic Brain Injury, Physical Therapy Got Him Back to College At the age of 21, Gerardo was a kinesiology student interested in sports therapy. He enjoyed playing sports, dancing, and hanging out with friends and family. All that changed when he was a passenger in a serious car accident. “I was ejected 40 to 60 ft from the car and landed on my side, hitting my head as I bounced on the ground,” Gerardo said. He was in a coma and a vegetative state for 3 months. His ensuing recovery was gradual. Unable to walk or do anything physical, he worked with various therapists. He would receive inpatient care in 3 different hospitals for about 6 months, and then move to outpatient care for a year and a half. “Both occupational and speech therapy helped me achieve my goals in physical therapy,” he said of his therapists’ collaboration. “My physical therapist pushed me to reach my goal, which was to walk again. He helped get me from a wheelchair to a walker, from a walker to a cane, and now I walk without a cane. He also taught my family how to help me recover my physical ability, which was crucial to my overall recovery.” One year later, Gerardo was walking and living independently, but with goals for further improvement. He is also back in college working toward his kinesiology degree, and plans to specialize in physical activity for older people. “I still want to recover more, but I feel that because of the magnitude of my accident, what I’m able to do is a huge accomplishment,” he said. Explore more patient stories like this one!	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1425
__label__wiki	0.628073	0.628073	National High School Heart of the Arts Award Lori Faulkner INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 12, 2019) — Nathanael Batson, a student at Lawrence High School in Fairfield, Maine, has been selected as the 2019 Section 1 recipient of the “National High School Heart of the Arts Award” by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The National High School Heart of the Arts Award was created by the NFHS to recognize those individuals who exemplify the ideals of the positive heart of the arts that represent the core mission of education-based activities. This is the sixth year that the National High School Heart of the Arts Award has been offered. Batson, who is blind as the result of a brain tumor, has not allowed that to define him or to restrict his numerous pursuits. A senior trumpet player in the Lawrence High School band, Batson made the Kennebec Valley Music Educators’ Association (KVMEA) Band every year and the All-State Band as a sophomore. Batson memorizes all of his music and is well-known for his stirring performances of the Star-Spangled Banner at various school, civic and community events. Throughout his life, Batson has battled severe health challenges, including almost losing his life during his junior year. Undaunted, he worked hard to overcome that, succeeded in making first chair in KVMEA and subsequently placed in the All-State Band this year. Outside of music, Batson achieved the vaunted rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America during his early teens by organizing a Pops Band that performed a free concert at the Maine Veterans’ Home in Augusta. He also participated in the 2017 National Scout Jamboree Band in West Virginia that performed for more than 40,000 people from around the world. About the Award The NFHS divides the nation into eight geographical sections. The states in Section 1 are Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey. Nominations for this award were generated through NFHS member state associations and reviewed by the NFHS Heart of the Arts Award Selection Committee composed of state association staff members. While the national winner will be recognized June 29 at the NFHS Summer Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana, the section winners will be recognized within their respective states and will receive awards before the end of the current school year. About the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) The NFHS, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is the national leadership organization for high school sports and fine arts activities. Since 1920, the NFHS has led the development of education-based interscholastic sports and fine arts activities that help students succeed in their lives. The NFHS sets direction for the future by building awareness and support, improving the participation experience, establishing consistent standards and rules for competition, and helping those who oversee high school sports and activities. The NFHS writes playing rules for 17 sports for boys and girls at the high school level. Through its 50 member state associations and the District of Columbia, the NFHS reaches more than 19,000 high schools and 11 million participants in high school activity programs, including more than 7.9 million in high school sports. As the recognized national authority on interscholastic activity programs, the NFHS conducts national meetings; sanctions interstate events; produces publications for high school coaches, officials and athletic directors; sponsors professional organizations for high school coaches, officials, spirit coaches, speech and debate coaches and music adjudicators; serves as the national source for interscholastic coach training; and serves as a national information resource of interscholastic athletics and activities. For more information, visit the NFHS website at www.nfhs.org.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1426
__label__wiki	0.768978	0.768978	Stories From Patients & Staff First-hand stories from our patients and staff The latest news from our medical humanitarian programs Statements & Opinion Official statements from Médecins Sans Frontières, and Opinion-Editorials from our spokespeople. Where you can find coverage of our work in Australian and New Zealand news media. Find information about the work we are doing in countries around the world How we respond to emergencies and disasters and help those in greatest need, no matter where they are. Find out more about our medical approach in emergency and resource-poor contexts. Read our activity reports and publications. MSF Australia Find out more about Médecins Sans Frontières' office in Australia. Read our annual financial reports and find out more about our finances Approved fundraising events are a great way to support our work. Help us bear witness to the plight of our patients through social media. Join us at one of our public events. Send an eCard to your family or friends. Resources for teachers and students Dr Myrto Schaefer Our Spokespeople Head of Medical Unit Médecins Sans Frontières Australia. Médecins Sans Frontières Operational Centre Paris. Dr Schaefer first joined Médecins Sans Frontières in 1997 and worked in a number of projects in Africa and Southeast Asia, first as a medical doctor and then in team and project coordination roles. Dr Schaefer then worked as a deputy program manager for Médecins Sans Frontières France with oversight on key programs including malnutrition, measles and meningitis, and HIV, TB and the health of displaced populations. Dr Schaefer joined Médecins Sans Frontières Australia in 2005, establishing the Medical Unit to provide medical support and strategic advice on women’s health and paediatrics in Médecins Sans Frontières field projects. The Medical Unit now comprises eight maternal and child health professionals, including expertise in HIV/TB and neonatal care, contributing to work in over 20 countries worldwide. Dr Myrto Schaefer obtained her medical degree from Freie Universitaet, Berlin in 1991 and qualified as a paediatrician from the German College of Paediatricians in 1998. She gained a Masters in International Health in 2003, focusing on paediatric and infant health. Key Topics: Medical Issues, HIV, TB, Paediatrics, Child Health, Women's Health Languages: English, German, French, Greek Many disease deaths are preventable tragedies Infant and Young Child Feeding in Mosul, Iraq Children with chronic diseases are not the majority of our patients but they exist and need our attention Our medical approach Work overseas Volunteer in our office Donate one-off Impact of your donation Supporter promise Find Médecins Sans Frontières Australia \| Doctors Without Borders on FacebookFind Médecins Sans Frontières Australia \| Doctors Without Borders on TwitterFind Médecins Sans Frontières Australia \| Doctors Without Borders on LinkedInFind Médecins Sans Frontières Australia \| Doctors Without Borders on Youtube Médecins Sans Frontières Australia Ltd. ABN: 74 068 758 654. Registered Charity Number: CFN 11960. All donations are processed in AUD. Donations over $2 are tax-deductible in Australia only.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1427
__label__cc	0.610436	0.389564	Film: How Museums can make money without selling out How can museums make money? Jim Broughton from the Natural History Museum London talks about how his museum has identified new areas for expanding their revenue-generating activities, without compromising either credibility or core purpose. Jim: Hello everybody, so, yes, finance after lunch on the final day. Tough gig. I also want to just apologise for my voice, it’s absolutely the remains of a cold and nothing to do at all with last night’s event at Science Gallery so I can confirm that for you first. So lots of the things that we’ve been talking about over the last couple of days have come back to our museums relationships with money, what we tell ourselves about money, what we tell our partners, our funders, our advocates, our external colleagues about money. So I thought what I’d share with you today is a process we’ve been through in our museum to think about what money means, think about the whole museum relationship with the stuff and how we can then turn that into a process, a filter mechanism for thinking about the kinds of partnerships that we are going to get involved in that add to us and enhance us when money is a large part of the equation. So just to begin I suppose first thing to say is I work at this museum here, a large museum, big national museum in London, fairly well known. My job title, International Engagement, means many things to many people, I always describe it as kind of the point where the museum’s diplomatic activities, our advocacy and partnerships, and our business services all come together, so the things that we do institutionally in the world as opposed to the science that we do in the world. That makes sense to me. If you were to ask my mother what I did she says he’s the guy that sells dinosaurs to China. Now that’s not wholly true by the way, but what I wanted to do was come up with something which illustrates perhaps some of the notions that we need to despatch, so really what is it that our museums do, it’s not such a narrow field of activities, what are the mechanisms by which we engage with other partners, what are the areas we’re interested, what are we doing it for, all of those kind of misconceptions we need to get rid of. So I thought I’d then take it further and say well museums are never going to be great businesses, and let’s start by looking at what museums have that they can exchange for money, so were we economists we’d be talking about goods and services and all those kinds of things. So when you start looking at it you could say it’s a pretty productive beginning, the first thing that we do is we provide entertainment, people like entertainment, you can only give it to the people who pay for it, you can exclude people from having it if they don’t pay, and it’s in abundant supply. You can sell entertainment to people again, and again, and again. It’s limitless, it’s not a finite resource, so far so good. Then there are the other things that we do, so museums we contribute to the furthering of the learning in society, so … and that happens through education, through research, through all those kinds of things, but societies need those things anyway, we need them on the basis of merit, and the problem is we also need those things for human culture to move forward regardless of our ability or willingness to pay for them, so it’s pretty hard to then have a financial relationship around those things that’s absolutely transactional. And then there are all the other things, and the things that we’ve talked about so many times over the last couple of days, so the fact that we help our national economies to grow, we make [unintelligible 00:03:50] look good overseas, we buy in society, we’re able to co-opt people to our agendas so we soft-power. All those things are great as well, they’re absolutely things that we do for the public and common good, and the challenge with these things is that you get them whether you pay for them or not. It’s almost like saying I don’t pay my taxes and therefore I don’t want the army to protect me in time of war. Tough, they do anyway. So again it becomes very hard for us to think about how we can commercialise each of these aspects of the benefits we bring for society. And it gets harder still. All of these things are wrapped up in joint products, so the products that we generate using all these benefits are absolutely inseparable. So take the example of a researcher, a researcher who is involved in doing a project that generates ostensibly pure research, it’s almost certainly going to have an element of economic growth as part of it, because we’re museums it’s going to be generating stuff that we’re going to use in learning programmes, it’s almost certainly going to find some outlet because we want to talk about that content in our public programmes and then there’ll be a [unintelligible] of entertainment, all those sorts of things. So we’ve got this strange combination of things which are hard to sell benefits wrapped up in indivisible products, that’s really hard. And to take it even further there’s the long-term nature of what we do, so the fact that we work across multiple generations, this is a quote from the American Economist James Tobin about intergenerational equity, so the fact that, you know, the whole thing that we do is preserving assets for society through a very long period of time, down the generations, and making sure that the things we preserve for the future are not undermined by what we’re doing today. It’s pretty hard to sell exhibition tickets to people who haven’t been born yet. So, as businesses, museums, yeah, the cards are stacked against us. So what happens, how do we get funded. So as we’re here in Europe, I’m from a national museum, other national museums in Europe, you know our governments who give us a proportion of our funding recognise these things, they give us a proportion of our operating income in order in some way I suppose to recognise these things that we’ve provided for society that can’t be transacted. If you were to look at our colleagues in the Prussian State museums, or in Paris, or in Madrid, or in Russia again generally half, sometimes a lot more of their operating income is giving to them as government grants and aids and of course they have to find the rest, and we do that through commercial activities or our charitable activities. And lots of the commercial activities of course hinge around our ability to transact around that bit of entertainment that we provide, so 15 to 20 Euros on the door makes a significant dent in that bit of money we still have to find. The Louvre I think currently makes about 65 million Euros a year from admissions alone so, you know, absolutely considerable potential there. And then in the UK, as ever, we try to do things a bit differently, so our museum, many other national museums in the UK have this paradox of getting slightly more than half of our operating income through government grant and aid, but also a condition of that grant and aid being that we are free at point of delivery certainly for access throughout our permanent galleries, permanent collections. So the one thing that we have in abundance that’s a commodity that we can transact around we’re not allowed to sell, and that makes it super-challenging in those kinds of environments to think about how you find the rest of that money, and that’s where the conversation begins, almost internally. How do we move from this reality of needing to find so much money to balance the books, to do all the good work that we do into a place where our relationship with money is founded upon an understanding that what we’re doing is rooted in our principles, rooted in our mission, serves our audiences in the right way and is credible? So our mission, David talked about his mission this morning, and similarly our organisation has crystalized its own kind of, I suppose, core principle around what we do and everything that falls from that. So as an organisation we study planet earth, more life on it, so … and we’ve done that for 200 plus years now in various forms, so challenging the way society thinks about the natural world is absolutely what we do, unites our science, our public programmes, our research, all those kinds of things, and we do that by looking at the natural world in the past, the way the planet evolved, and life on it came into being, we do it by looking at living biodiversity and all of the implications around that, and we do it by providing data that helps inform a debate around sustainability, and climate change, and resource use, and all those kinds of things in the future, so the first thing absolutely critical. Secondly it’s thinking about who that mission is expressed to, who our audience is, who are our constituents, and where do we do those activities. So let’s start local, it’s the public, it’s the people we are funded primarily to serve, it’s our peers in the scientific community, it’s our funders, it’s our advocates, and it’s the business world. These are the kinds of audiences almost who we would address. And where do we do it, well we do it on site in the museum, we do it nationally around the country, we do it beyond the national borders elsewhere in the world, and increasingly we do it in digital space, and these things are almost like layers of an onion radiating out from where we are. But what’s also interesting when you try to visualise things this way is that you can see that the further to the right across this diagram that you move the further you move away from our central location, our kind of core facility, and the further you move away from our … I suppose our fundamental audience, the public. So you can then start to think about how we might fund each of those activities the further they go from that left-hand side of the diagram. And we can look at kind of where those relationships exist, so the public we find them everywhere, the scientific community we tend to find them outside our four walls but everywhere else, etcetera, etcetera, but you can see very quickly that peers and advocates, the business world, the kinds of relationships we have with those people are further from our public purpose, further from our site, and therefore we should be looking at alternative ways of funding those activities increasingly through things that generate a surplus, a net contribution to the deficit in our public grant and aid. So far so very theoretical. The other thing is why, what quality measures can you apply that enable you to filter out all the many opportunities that exist around your mission, so ultimately we should be doing things for I would say five reasons, they’re good for us, they’re good for our reputation, they enhance us, they help us engage more deeply with larger audiences, they help, in the case of our museum, a science museum, advance human knowledge through the study of the natural world, we help our sector by transferring knowledge and as a learning culture in our organisation we learn from the people we work with, and ideally we make a net contribution to our operating deficit. Easy to think of this in some ways as a kind of like a graphic equaliser on a 1980s stereo, you know, these are a set of sliders and we need them all to remain above zero for us to get a nett benefit at any point. And of course if any of those sliders falls below zero, if we’re damaging our reputation, or we’re alienating our audiences, etcetera, of doing bad science then we really have to question whether we should be doing that activity at all regardless of how its funded. And this kind of dialogue, this kind of metric, can be really empowering for having that conversation with colleagues internally within the organisation about the credibility of what they do, so we can begin to break down those fears of commercial work or work that has money attached to it even if it’s just recovering costs as being somehow unclean. We need to stop those fears from, I suppose, proliferating and people worrying that we’re in it for the wrong kind of reasons. So if people understand that everything we do is work that’s credible that enhances us that’s in the service of our mission regardless of how it’s funded they feel happy about it and we get better work out of it too. So I thought I’d just give you some examples of what that looks like for us, what it looks like in our organisation when we apply that filter and then engage in projects that make an overall financial contribution to our grant and aid deficit, and I’ve picked things that are not the things that you would expect us to be talking about in terms of the day-to-day consumer facing things like retail, and catering, all those sorts of things. So … here’s an example, this is a picture of Phobos, one of the moons of Mars. We’ve been working for a number of years now with the European space agency on building what we’re calling the analogue collections. Essentially these are big trays full of minerals that replicate what we expect the surface of the Martian moons and Mars and the moon etcetera to be like in order that’s when spacecraft or scientific instruments are tested, they can be tested pre-flight in conditions that as closely as possible replicate the mineralogical, or chemical, or geological surfaces of planets where they’ll end up going because nobody wants to spend a lot of money on spending a space probe to Mars only to find out that it’s attacked by the dust or corroded by the surface. So, a great example of a project for us which is really advancing human knowledge, is funded well by the European space agency and absolutely enhances our reputation. And you can see a little scatter gram here in a way to kind of almost help us display what the major benefits are of that project. Another example, this is probably one of the more presentable images of its type, so this is what happens when a bird hits a jet engine and comes down to the far end. Quite often as you can imagine what’s left is pretty hard to identify. Now it’s absolutely critical, in fact it’s statutory required in the UK that these impacts are investigated. So when you’ve got that kind of mess left often the only way you can determine what the bird was is by DNA analysis, or microscopic analysis of the base of the feathers because feathers are all morphologically different across species. Why do we do that, well actually several important reasons, as soon as you know what it is then you’re able to determine how big it was, whether it was on its own, whether it was flying at a certain altitude or not, all those kinds of things which provide really important parameters for the refinement of jet engine design, also for the planning of habitat management around airports, the layout of airports, all these kinds of things absolutely contribute to public safety. So a really exciting project, working with Rolls Royce for a number of years around that and it’s a project that we think oh, absolutely pushes the scientific frontier in this area, but of course we’re working with industry, we’re working on the basis that both parties understand it’s absolutely about providing a much sought-after almost unique business service. Something else, a project that many people will know, cultural institute, The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran in Eastern Saudi Arabia, a project that has many partners, many museums, cultural institutes, consultants working on it around the world, but something really exciting, a project that we became involved in five or six years ago during the planning stages, essentially to masterplan a gallery of natural history and to develop the content for that. But what’s really exciting about that is where it’s gone since, so although it’s a … not an existing cultural organisation, it’s a CSR kind of initiative on behalf of a major corporate, it’s turned into a relationship that’s really exciting, so we had a team in Saudi, in fact just a few months ago working with 30 or 40 young people from across the local area and a mixed gender group as well, again logistically not easy in Saudi, but helping them embed a culture of volunteering into their organisation in a place where that really wasn’t something that was understood at all. And we have future things in the pipeline with them, so we’re working in the future on learning how to develop customer service standards in a place that doesn’t really have a strong kind of experiential kind of service culture, or working on how to evaluate visitor behaviour and satisfaction in exhibitions. So these things are really now helping to transform an organisation in an utterly immeasurable way, in a … from a level where there’s … these things are known to something which is really going to help them embed in their locality in the future. Another example, this is not something we do for vast amounts of money, it more or less recovers our costs, but it enormously again helps our reputation, helps science, so we do a lot of forensic work for the police services around the UK, and it’s pretty gruesome work I have to say, I mean some of the staff who are involved in this are called to crime scenes in the middle of the night, and shallow graves in the woods, those kinds of things, but by studying things like the insect lifecycles, the hatch cycles of various kind of … of the organisms that pray on decomposing flesh you can establish time of death, it’s not all that … that dark. I mean some of it is work around looking at contaminants in the food industry for example trying to work out, you know, how things got tainted in the supply chain or whether certain cases for claims for compensation are legitimate, but again it’s work that’s absolutely critical and very hard for those kinds of services to be found outside of an institution with the unique combination of skills and facilities they have, so the CT labs, the imaging suites, the reference collection, you know, the expertise that exists in our people, so, again, really important. And lastly perhaps an example of a project which is much more I suppose familiar to us as museums, work we might be doing with another museum, so this is the Sarawak Museum in Malaysian Borneo. It’s a museum with which we share a complex history, we’ve been working together in various forms for over 130 years, they were founded on the recommendation of one of our scientists when he was traveling through the Malay archipelago, and recently however they’ve received enormous investment from the Ministry of Tourism to transform their building, build a safer store for their collections, to transform their organisation also so they can become the modern State museum for Sarawak in the 21st century. Now that’s something which again really works well with us, it sits well with our ambitions to engage with different kinds of audiences in mega biodiverse nations, it works really well against our ability to want to transfer knowledge organisationally, it creates opportunities for us to do mutual field projects up in the jungles of Borneo, but also there’s a service to be provided here, there is an architectural team who needs to understand the technical requirements required to build, specify, and operate a class-leading museum in a market where those services are entirely unprocurable anywhere else, but they are services that otherwise would be bought from the commercial market. So our ability again is to separate what we do for the long-term, what we do from institutional, and what we can do within a design process working with an architectural team, and again it’s a really positive conversation between all of our colleagues involved in that project. So, just a few examples, I’d like to give you a strong finish, I’m not sure I can, maybe it’s an obvious finish, but essentially what does the perfect project look like for these kinds of things? Well, if we’re going to do something that makes us money, doesn’t sell out, then it has to enhance our mission, or our credibility, support our mission, address various of those audiences ideally in various spheres of influence, and it has to contribute more than what it costs us to deliver it otherwise it’s not helping with that big intransigent kind of business problem that we have at the outset. Jim Broughton, Head of International Engagement, The Natural History Museum London spoke at MuseumNext Dublin in April 2016 about how museums can make money without compromising either credibility or core purpose.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1430
__label__wiki	0.868677	0.868677	Jake Bugg: “I'm not a fan of formulas in songwriting, and being told that this is right and that’s wrong” By Andy Hughes 2017-11-27T09:50:33.33Z Guitars The songwriter on the Nashville sessions behind Hearts That Strain and acoustics stranded by CITES (Image credit: Jordan Harris) Five years ago, a little known Jake Bugg tentatively stepped onto Cambridge Folk Festival’s smallest stage. We caught up with Bugg ahead of his headline billing at this year’s event to talk album four, Nashville, and whether guitars have personalities. Every successful musician starts somewhere - and they can look back at some defi ning moments during their rise to success. For Jake Bugg, two of those defining moments occurred at festivals - Glastonbury and The Cambridge Folk Festival. At Glastonbury, he graduated from the BBC Introducing stage to the main Pyramid stage in just two years. Jake’s rise at Cambridge was a little less immediate, but no less impressive for that - moving from the smallest venue on site, the Den, in 2012, to the main headline act this year. I felt very comfortable in the traditional atmosphere of a Nashville recording studio, and I certainly learned a lot In the afternoon sunshine prior to his headline set, Bugg sat down for an extensive conversation about the spirit of guitars, recording in Nashville, and running new songs past trusted friends to get their approval before they make it to the record. We started by looking back to his appearance at Cambridge five years ago, which history shows to have been a pivotal experience. Not surprisingly, it didn’t feel like that to Bugg at the time. “I can’t say that it did, because obviously at the time I had no idea what was in store for me, or where things would go from there,” he explains. “It did feel very important, and very enjoyable as well. When I was growing up, I used to read about all my acoustic heroes playing this festival, so when I got a chance to play here it was just incredible. The audience were really attentive and I felt very connected, which is a big part of the joy of acoustic music for me. “I don’t think any gigs are seen as groundbreaking when you play them - it did feel like a really lovely gig and that is why I remember it so well. But mostly I just go and play my shows, and then maybe some time in the future I can look back at the memorable ones.” Nashville nights Bugg’s latest album, Hearts That Strain, is, he feels, something of a return to the traditional album format, with a sense of cohesion that was perhaps absent from its predecessor. “I think the new album Hearts That Strain does feel more like a proper album, I made it in Nashville with some amazing session musicians from there, and it does have a constant atmosphere in the production of the songs, more perhaps than I think I had with the On My One record. “I felt very comfortable in the traditional atmosphere of a Nashville recording studio, and I certainly learned a lot. They are the Memphis Boys, the drummer played on Dusty Springfield’s Son Of A Preacher Man, the band worked with Elvis Presley, so working with musicians like this is something I have dreamed about growing up, working in that environment with those players. "I didn’t feel intimidated playing in Nashville with seasoned session guys, because I have that feeling of being a little intimidated whenever I play with other people in any situation. "It’s always on my mind: ‘Am I going to cut it? Am I going to be the weak link in this group of players?’ But what I find is, musicians do like to put each other at ease, and I certainly got that with the Nashville team. They made me feel at ease, like I belonged with them in the sessions.” Despite working with a full band, Bugg is acoustic for tonight’s headline slot at the Cambridge Folk Festival - with just a keyboard player to add some subtle colours. Does he feel at all exposed, without the comfort of comrades around him? “It can feel a bit exposed sometimes,” Bugg agrees. “But the upside of it is the freedom to change things around a little, and maybe do things slightly differently if the mood takes me, which you can’t do with a band, because it will throw everyone off and mess things up. With one other backing musician, he can follow me if I take a slightly different path on a song. There is an intimacy of connection when you are playing on your own, which I do like. “One of the differences when I play on my own is that I have to work out the guitar parts from the album. My friend Matt Sweeney played some wonderful acoustic guitar, and while he was playing it, and I was thinking how great it sounds, another part of me was thinking ‘I’ve got to work out how to do that so I can play the songs for my solo shows.’ I can do it, but I know I will have to put the practice in so I can do it without thinking about the playing, so I can put my mind on the singing.” The differences between solo and full band shows are not, it seems, limited simply to the number of bodies up there on the stage. It appears that consideration to the inclusion and exclusion of certain songs is also to be considered, as Bugg explains. “I think you have to consider the feeling of the evening, the format in which the songs are being played: things like that are important to the atmosphere. There are some really cheerful, upbeat songs that I would play if the band was here, but they won’t work as well with just me playing acoustically, so those songs are left out of the set tonight. I do have two or three songs from the new record that I want to try out, and I know they will fit in with the vibe I am looking for.” For this new album, I set myself a target of writing two songs a week, and I found that one song would come in about three hours Listeners to Bugg’s new album will hear a vintage, and also a distinctly dark feel in songs like In The Event Of My Demise. Is there a darker side to Jake Bugg the songwriter? “I do really like dark blues songs,” he replies with a careful smile. “Writers like Skip James and Robert Johnson. But I never think, 'I want to write a song like ones that they have written.' If you think like that, you are either going to write something that sounds too much like the song you admire, or you are going to write something and know that it’s just not as good. What I do, and I think all songwriters do, is let those influences sink into my subconscious, and then see what comes out in the future when the writing works.” Every songwriter needs quality control; a sounding board, a person who can be trusted to listen to a new song and give an honest account about its quality and, crucially, whether it’s good enough for the record it is planned for. Bugg has quality control in his friends from back home in Nottingham where he grew up. “I have close friends that are really into their music, and I will try my songs out for them, and get their opinions. I also have friends who are Top 40 fans, and if I play them a song with a beat and they like it, then I know I have got the right pop vibe going on in there. “I do write all the time, it’s my hobby; I am just very lucky because I am able to do it as a job as well. I sit at home with my guitar, and I just write and write - sometimes I write songs that I don’t think are necessarily for me to sing, but I just enjoy trying things in different styles. “I don’t write songs with specific singers or artists in mind, but sometimes I write a song that I think is poppy, and I think it would sound better if a more pop-orientated singer than me did it, but that’s not something I set out to do, it’s just what happens when I write, what comes along comes along. “For this new album, I set myself a target of writing two songs a week, and I found that one song would come in about three hours, and the other would take the rest of the week to finish. “I don’t really know how I get from the beginning to the end to be honest, I am always a little bit surprised by the end product, and how it got to be a finished song. I sometimes find myself stuck in the middle, with no idea how I’m going to get to the end of a song, and that’s the time to put it on one side and come back to it another time, and see if it works, rather than struggling and getting nowhere with it.” Art vs science Does he have a favourite song from this album? “I think my favourite is Southern Rain. I didn’t realise until I came to record it, when it was pointed out to me, that the session musicians may struggle with it, because it is written in two keys. I wasn’t aware of that at the time I wrote it, I just thought it flowed nicely. “That’s the difference between being self-taught like I am, and being a trained musician like the studio guys are. So they are asking me which key the song is in, and I can’t tell them because I have absolutely no idea! Music is not science to me, it’s art, you can’t create it in a laboratory or using a set of rules created by computers “I'm not a fan of formulas in songwriting, and being told that this is right and that’s wrong. It’s not the way I like to work as a songwriter and as a musician. I know there are the Top 20 pop songwriters who have these set formulas that they use that will resonate in peoples’ minds when they hear a song and it makes them listen to it and connect with it, it’s all scientific. “Music is not science to me, it’s art, you can’t create it in a laboratory or using a set of rules created by computers. That’s why you see modern pop songs with 12 writers and then another 12 producers, because they have all been in the lab concocting weird things to put this song together, but it all comes out sounding the same. That way of thinking, and writing has no place in the music I make.” Time to look back to Bugg’s first guitar - and a couple of the instruments that make up his current collection of more than twenty guitars. “My uncle brought a guitar for me when I was about 12. It was not an expensive one, maybe about £30, and I think he thought it would sit around his house gathering dust. So I started to play it and I learned the G and E minor chords, and it never felt like a chore to play it, I just enjoyed playing it when I had time. “Next I got a Yamaha FG-150 MS, and that was a great guitar. I think it cost around £170, and for that price, they are probably the best guitars around. I was just obsessed with guitars by then, I would save any money I got for Christmas and birthdays, and just buy guitars. When I got my record deal, I went straight down to the shop and got my first Martin, which was a guitar I always wanted, and I was really happy to have one. “When I was in Memphis I went to the Gibson factory and tried a Gibson ES-390 semi-acoustic which is wonderful. It was the showroom model I tried out, and the shop manager told me I could have it, so when I see all the photographs in their brochures, that’s the actual model that I’ve got. There is usually a nice little story to go with each guitar I have. “I also love my custom-made acoustics - I have had a couple made by Patrick Eggle who is a wonderful luthier. They are small body parlour-sized models with slotted headstocks and 12 frets, and I play one of those all the time, I love it. “I have always liked the smaller-bodied guitars, I just feel they have a better tone, maybe because the fretboard is nearer to the soundhole; there may well be people who will argue with me, but it does come down to personal preference, and that style of guitar is the one I enjoy playing the most. “I saw Don Maclean play one when I was small, and I was obsessed with that small body guitar with a slotted headstock, and that was what I always wanted, and now I can have one. Life is really good.” When Jake Bugg arrived in Nashville to record his new album, he didn’t have a single guitar with him. A good excuse to go shopping, then? Bugg tells us about the guitars he used for the record... “Most of the tracks on the album were recorded using a Martin 000-18, a beautiful vintage model that I picked up while I was in Nashville. It’s got a small body, and the sound is amazing. “It’s still in the USA, though, because parts of it are made from Brazilian rosewood, and you need a licence to transport the wood across borders because its use is very strictly controlled; I'm trying to get the paperwork to bring it into the UK. The regulations are pretty complex and strict, so I really hope I can get it over. You really have to be aware that the guitars that don’t look that attractive to you can sound really amazing - you have to get past the initial looks “I do miss that guitar, I loved playing it. It was an instrument I couldn’t put down. I would just see it in the corner and want to play it all the time. I do really like the way vintage guitars play and sound. “I also bought a 1963 Gibson Country Western model which I didn’t use on the record, but that’s another beautiful guitar. I arrived in Nashville without any guitars with me, which was a great excuse to just go shopping! I always go to Gruhn's Guitars when I get to Nashville, I have shopped there before and I know they always have a fabulous stock of acoustics there, so that’s a place I always call on when I am in the city. “Shopping for guitars is interesting, because you always go for a guitar that you like the look of first. It’s the visual attraction that gets you interested, but you really have to be aware that the guitars that don’t look that attractive to you can sound really amazing, so you have to get past the initial looks of an instrument and try it, because the sound is what you are really looking for. “There is a theory that guitars absorb something of the people who play them, so the older a guitar is, the more spirit it is going to have. It’s based on a good principle, when people play a guitar it resonates, and it resonates in the way it is played, so it does absorb something of the players who have worked with it. “My bass player and I were talking about this a couple of nights ago on the tour bus, wondering if guitars have personalities, and if they talk about new guitars coming in, wondering what they sound like, and what their tone is. It’s an unusual idea, but an interesting one. I have a guitar that a lot of people find annoying to play, but it works fine for me - we seem to have a connection.” Jake Bugg's new album Hearts That Strain is out now.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1431
__label__wiki	0.896322	0.896322	What is beta testing? By Computer Music (Computer Music) 2012-09-18T14:15:00.261Z Tech The ins and outs of pre-release bug squishing "A bug infestation y'say? That's gonna cost ya..." When you hear that a new or updated piece of software that you're interested in is 'in beta', your immediate reaction is usually a positive one: 'Great - it's nearly ready to be released!' Once beta testing has begun, it's easy to assume that the hard programming yards have been covered and now it's just a case of dotting the 'i's and crossing the 't's. Is this really the case for every company, though? Some products seem to be in beta for just a few weeks, while others remain in this state for months - maybe more! In some cases the beta process is shielded from users, with the public only hearing about the product when it's ready for release; but in others, the great unwashed are asked to test several different versions. Also, how do developers know when beta testing should stop? Can a product be declared 'finished' once it's out of beta, or does this just mean that it's stable enough to be sent to market? To beta or not to beta Let's try to define exactly what a company means when it says that its software is 'in beta'. Scott Fisher is Communications and Marketing Manager at Image-Line, developers of FL Studio. How would he define it? "I suppose we would contrast beta with alpha," Fisher says. "In alpha, the software is still under development, is likely to have structural changes and is tested by perhaps ten to 20 people. We go to beta when we have found most of the bugs we can with the alpha group and the software is basically in release form. "At this stage, it is far less likely to have any structural or design changes, but we are always open to that possibility. This phase is mainly about bug-hunting based on the wider testing and gathering feedback on workflow issues." Jonathan Hillman is Product Manager for PreSonus's Studio One. His view is that beta software "is a version that is ready to be evaluated beyond our internal group. At that point, to our knowledge, everything works as intended. The scope of the release is more or less proportional to the length of time we spend in beta; that is, a larger release requires more extensive beta testing." This is confirmed by Ohm Force, which is putting the finishing touches to its long-awaited, collaboration-friendly DAW Ohm Studio - the beta phase is currently in full effect. "Ohm Studio actually needs more beta testing than other sequencers because you need to also test the server loads, bandwidth, storage and features such as collaborative freeze that deal with non-shared plug-ins with a handy bounce. That means not only a beta, but a public one." "Public testing can begin when a product has reached a certain level of quality but now needs larger-scale feedback." Ohm Force Ah yes, the public beta testing programme - this has become increasingly common in recent years, particularly as the internet has made it easier for users to get hold of software and submit feedback on its performance. What are the benefits of public beta testing versus in-house/private evaluation, though? "Public beta testing involves a huge quantity and variety of systems, which is very desirable," says Hillman. "However, the quality of feedback tends to be inversely proportional to the size of the beta group. There's also the obvious disadvantage of showing your hand to the competition, which matters when you are innovating." There may be pros and cons to public beta testing, then, but Image-Line's Scott Fisher is of the view that the positives far outweigh the negatives - both for developers and users. "We adopted a strategy of public beta testing many years ago, simply because it means that when we do launch software formally, it's been pretty thoroughly tested by tens of thousands of people. We also have a core of customers who love to get their hands on our latest products as soon as possible. It's a win-win really." Is it the case, though, that customers are constantly being asked to use software that isn't finished? Scott Fisher doesn't think so. "Using the beta is entirely optional," he says. "We always direct customers to the latest official release for time- and mission-critical work. We do our best to keep the two separate in our customers' minds." Ohm Force makes the point that if you're going to send your beta out for public testing, you need to ensure you don't do it too early in the process. "If we had given access [to Ohm Studio] to anyone at the early stage of development, most people would have been disappointed, to the extent that frustration caused by technical failure would have been greater than frustration caused by staying on the pending list. Public testing can begin when a product has reached a certain level of quality but now needs larger-scale feedback." Knowing when to stop Just as importantly, how do you know when beta testing should end? "We set and track objectives for releases: address certain issues, expand or add features, rethink an interface element, and so on," says PreSonus' Jonathan Hillman. "When the objectives are met and stability is solid in our in-house tests, we enter beta. When stability is reported as solid within the beta group, and we're satisfied that no workflow issues have come up, we're finished." That sounds pretty clear, but 'finished' can be a tricky concept in software development, as Ohm Force confirm. "The truth is that Ohm Studio, like any DAW, will never be finished. Remember Ableton Live 1.0: it had a really innovative feature, but was also missing other big ones - it had no MIDI instruments at all! Many features that we consider essential were added in later versions. "Well, the same goes with Ohm Studio. As of today, no one offers a collaborative solution comparable to ours. While that and other aspects of Ohm Studio will be improved over the years, some people are very happy to use it already. That's one key marker - not for saying it's 'finished', but for the release. The other marker is having the package of features and bug fixes without which selling Ohm Studio would feel unacceptable." What should a company do if they've reached a set deadline for the end of beta testing and know that there are still problems to be fixed? Should the beta period be extended, or is it better to release first and iron out the kinks later? "Deadlines are man-made, so they are always open to being changed," says Scott Fisher. "If it's not ready, it's not shipped. On the other hand, software will always have bugs. Every developer knows there will be issues no matter how thorough the beta test was." In other words, you can beta test for as long as you like, but there will inevitably be some bugs that slip through the net. The important thing is that any issues that do remain aren't fundamental to the way the software works and performs. "If those issues have the potential to affect stability or functionality for a large number of users, no, [the software] should not be released," says Jonathan Hillman. "At the end of the day, users correctly value stability over everything." This article originally appeared in issue 182 of Computer Music magazine.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1432
__label__cc	0.743948	0.256052	US Freeze On Funding To Syria Includes White Helmets Rescue Group The group has received more than $33 million from the U.S. since 2013. Syrian rescue workers commonly called the White Helmets have been without U.S. funding since March. The volunteer group, officially called Syria Civil Defense, has worked throughout the civil war to provide emergency response and health services to people hit by airstrikes and chemical weapons attacks. The group is often vilified by the Syrian government and Russia. They've been called terrorists and are the subject of conspiracy theories. But when President Donald Trump suspended aid to Syria in March, the White Helmets lost a major source of funding. The group has received more than $33 million from the U.S. since 2013. Officials say that funding is still under review. Trump had suggested withdrawing U.S. forces from Syria, only to order joint air strikes on sites suspected to be a part of President Bashar al-Assad's chemical weapons program.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1437
__label__wiki	0.70155	0.70155	The Progressive Attacks on Senate Democrats Over the Shutdown Are Premature In ending the shutdown, Senator Chuck Schumer, pictured at right, beside Mitch McConnell, veered off a path that could have been politically perilous for Democrats in fall’s midterm elections. Photograph by Al Drago / Bloomberg / Almay Liberal Democrats and progressive activists reacted angrily on Monday after a majority of Senate Democrats voted to enable the federal government to reopen after a three-day shutdown. “It’s morally reprehensible and it’s political malpractice,” Ezra Levin, a former Capitol Hill staffer who co-founded the anti-Trump Indivisible Group, declared. “Schumer led the [Senate] caucus off the cliff.” Markos Moulitsas, the founder of the Daily Kos, accused the Senate Democrats of aiding Republican efforts to block an immigration deal that would protect the Dreamers. The critics’ arguments merit serious consideration. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s promise to take up immigration legislation when the spending bill expires in three weeks hardly amounted to a firm commitment to extend legal protections for the Dreamers, which will begin to lapse at the start of March. “The idea that they are gonna take a pinky-swear promise from Senator McConnell after he’s broken so many promises, it’s political malpractice—it’s absurd to believe that,” Levin said. “The only answer is that [they] aren’t actually interested in fighting for the Dreamers.” That last comment was unfair. In their pursuit of a legislative deal for the Dreamers, Schumer and other Democratic senators took the highly contentious step of shutting down the government. If McConnell doesn’t follow through on his promises, they may well do the same thing again in three weeks’ time. Reopening the government was a tactical move, not a betrayal of the Dreamers. Whether it was the right tactical move won’t be clear for a while, but it was certainly a defensible one, especially in view of the broader political environment. Progressives worry that Schumer and his colleagues will capitulate again in February, which could happen. But a number of things will be different then. For one thing, they will already have assured six years of funding for CHIP, the public health-insurance program that serves six million children. As my colleague Amy Davidson Sorkin pointed out yesterday, the inclusion of long-term funding in the new short-term spending resolution amounts to a “solid victory” for Democrats. The second difference is that, by mid-February, the deadline for reaching an agreement on the Dreamers will be almost upon us. Over the weekend, Democrats were vulnerable to the argument, made by McConnell and others, that they had shut down the government over an issue that doesn’t have to be resolved immediately. In three weeks, Republicans won’t be able to say this. Thirdly, by February 8th, the “Common Sense Coalition,” a group of twenty-five moderates led by Senator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine, which helped resolve the weekend standoff, might well have put forward an actual bill to protect the Dreamers and give Donald Trump the funding he wants to build his non-wall along the border with Mexico. If that bill passes, as seems likely, the White House will be under pressure to declare victory and call on the House Republicans to fall in line. To be sure, this brings up the question of whether Trump, his White House advisers, and G.O.P. leaders in the House really want a deal, or have the capacity to strike one, given the divisions in the Party. Until now, the White House has insisted that any agreement must include wholesale changes to the system of legal immigration, particularly the lottery system and family-chain migration. On Monday, House Republicans were openly dismissive of McConnell’s offer to bring up legislation, saying it didn’t bind them in any way. Perhaps they will stick to this line, but will that be a sustainable position? As the Huffington Post’s Matt Fuller pointed out, “The Democratic position of not voting for a government funding bill until there’s a DACA deal seems much more reasonable if there’s actual legislation that’s passed the Senate and is being ignored in the House. You’d be certain to hear the words, ‘Give us a vote, Mr. Speaker!’ ” Another key point is that the potential roadblocks to a deal would still be there if the Democrats had again rejected McConnell’s offer. They might be even larger. With the government closed, Trump and the Republicans would be pounding the Democrats, claiming that they were holding hostage two million federal employees. None of the critics of Monday’s deal has explained how the Democrats would have been able to change this dynamic as the shutdown went on and large elements of the public got more disgusted about it. It seems fanciful to suppose that Trump, whose entire outlook on life is circumscribed by his obsession over whether he is “winning” or “losing,” would have capitulated and given the Democrats a better deal than the one McConnell offered. By agreeing to reopen the government, the Democrats didn’t insure the Dreamers will be protected: the critics are right about that. But they didn’t give the house away, either, and they veered off a path that could have been politically perilous, not just for the outcome of the immigration debate but also for the midterms. Ever since Trump took office, the Democrats’ biggest advantage has been that they are widely seen as the reasonable alternative, or at least the lesser evil, while the Republicans have gone to dangerous extremes under an unfit and divisive President. Once the Senate Democrats voted not to fund the government, a tactic previously associated with the likes of Newt Gingrich and Ted Cruz, Republicans seized on the opportunity to challenge this narrative. According to the Washington Post, they werealready making robocalls to voters in marginal states saying Democrats had “prioritized illegal immigrants over American citizens.” Understandably, many Democrats who are facing election battles in districts that voted for Trump didn’t like the way this was heading. By agreeing to a temporary funding bill and embracing a bipartisan approach, they called a halt. Come February, if the bipartisan effort fails, or Trump and Ryan continue to stonewall, they will be in position to claim the higher ground and point to the immediate harm that is about to be done to countless hardworking individuals who were brought to the United States as children, through no choice of their own, and who, in many cases, have never known another home. Polls indicate that the American public overwhelmingly favors doing something about this. Of course, being reasonable isn’t necessarily the route to political success. The Republicans weren’t reasonable during their 2013 government shutdown, but they still picked up seats in 2014. In midterm elections, when turnout is lower than in Presidential elections, it is particularly important to enthuse the Party’s core voters. If large numbers of liberal Democrats got turned off by Schumer’s calculating approach, it would be a big blow to the Party’s hopes of regaining control of Congress. But is that likely to happen? Only if Senate Democrats capitulate in February, when, absent more congressional action, the government will again run out of money, and the debt ceiling will also need to be raised. Schumer and his colleagues still have leverage. As the women’s marches demonstrated, animosity toward Trump and the Republicans among rank-and-file Democrats remains intense. This thing isn’t over. John Cassidy has been a staff writer at The New Yorker since 1995. He also writes a column about politics, economics, and more for newyorker.com. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Subscribe to John Cassidy’s newsletter to get the latest on politics, economics, and the news. The Immigrants Deported to Death and Violence Sarah Stillman reports on people who fled their home countries fearing for their lives, and the tragic consequences when they were sent back. The Best Reason for Democrats Ending the Shutdown Now: CHIP Funding Nine million children who rely on the Children’s Health Insurance Program are no longer on the brink of losing their coverage. By Amy Davidson Sorkin Did Schumer Cave on the Shutdown? The Democrats have discovered the limits of their power in Trump’s Washington. By Benjamin Wallace-Wells	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1438
__label__cc	0.717831	0.282169	Watertown Police Department announces promotions WATERTOWN, NY — The following are recent promotions within the Watertown Police Department: Sergeant James A. Romano was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and has taken command of the “C” Platoon on the 6 pm to 6 am shift. The promotion was effective Feb. 24, 2019. Lt. Romano was hired by our department on February 9, 2000 and was assigned to the patrol division. His past duties include field training officer, special response team officer, evidence technician, police academy instructor and warrants officer. On Au. 31, 2009, he was promoted to Detective and was assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, where he served until his promotion to Sergeant on June 30, 2014. He served as a patrol supervisor until he was selected as the department’s Training Director on June 23, 2015. On Sept. 3, 2017, he was transferred to the Criminal Investigation Division as the Detective Sergeant. He served in that position until his promotion to Lieutenant. Patrol Officer George A. Cummings was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and will be assigned to the “D” Platoon on the 6 pm to 6 am shift. The promotion was effective Feb. 25, 2019. Sgt. Cummings was hired as patrol officer on Oct. 1, 2007. He is a police training instructor and former field training officer. He is one of the department’s drug recognition experts. Patrol Officer Christopher J. Kamide was promoted to Detective and was assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division. The promotion was effective January 14, 2019. Det. Kamide started his police career as a deputy with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in January 2011. He was hired as patrol officer for our department on Nov. 20, 2014. He is a police training instructor and former field training officer. Previous articleBarclay: Budget must keep middle class tax cut, fund local roads and libraries Next articlePence says he ‘couldn’t be more proud’ of wife Karen who faced criticism for teaching art class at Virginia school that requires parents to sign anti-gay pledge	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1440
__label__wiki	0.916182	0.916182	Keeping The Momentum Going Joel WardWashington Capitals Joel Ward and the Capitals are entering the playoffs as one of the NHL’s hottest teams & looking to continue their recent success In a span of 48 hours, the Washington Capitals seemingly lost 48-game season suddenly turned, putting Joel Ward and his teammates on the road to a once unthinkable division title. For a majority of the 2012-13 NHL campaign, the Capitals, thought to be a major contender for bragging rights in the Southeast, were battling to stay in playoff contention. A trip to rival Winnipeg in March for a two-game set against the Jets, however, put the struggling Caps back on the post-season map. “When I look back to a point in the season where things shifted for us, it would be those back-to-back games in Winnipeg,” said Ward, of the 4-0 and 6-1 wins. “We got four points, but we also dominated against a good team on their home ice. To that point, we hadn’t played well. We weren’t really able to play consistently and play the way we knew we could. In those two games, we did.” Once bottom dwellers in the East at one point this season, Washington continued to gain ground on their division foes after the Manitoba road trip, going on to win the Southeast and netting the third seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. For most, it was a surprising reversal in fortune. Not so for an optimistic veteran. “We all had to get used to a new system and a new coach (Adam Oates), so there was an understanding it would take some time for us to adapt,” said the undrafted Ontario Hockey League alumnus, who came to the Capitals as a free agent in 2011. “But there were certainly some frustrating times. There was one game against Pittsburgh where we just didn’t play well at all. We called a team meeting and we talked about a lot of things. Everyone was disappointed at the situation, but no one was giving up and there was no finger-pointing. I always thought we would get on-track. It was just a question of when that would come. Luckily, it did.” From playoff long shots to Stanley Cup contenders, it wasn’t just one player or a handful of contributors that got Washington to this point. “’Ovie’ (Caps superstar Alexander Ovechkin) took a lot of bashing, but then he just got into beast mode and played unbelievable,” said Ward, of the league’s leading goal-scorer and three-time Ted Lindsay Award recipient. “Just like everyone, he had to adapt to a new system and new role. He’s just amazing. But our goaltenders, defence, everyone – the whole roster has made an impact. “It was a struggle for us, but we didn’t give up,” continued Ward. “We were taking a lot of penalties and we paid the price for that. But we addressed that and other components of our game and things worked out well.” So well, in fact, the once seemingly depleted Capitals, a team in search of their first Stanley Cup, are packing plenty of punch heading into the playoffs, where they’ll face the New York Rangers for the fourth time in five years. It started with consecutive convincing performances in March. How might it end for Ward and his teammates? “It sounds crazy and cliché, but there was a time we were playing period by period, working hard to get back in the race,” he offered. “Now, we’re where we hoped we’d be and we’re all focused on keeping that momentum going.” My Top 5: Joel Ward's gifts for teammates Veteran forward Joel Ward spoke with NHLPA.com and picked out five special gift ideas for five of his San Jose Sharks teammates. Ward For The Win Clutch playoff performer Joel Ward had two goals in Game 6 to help the Sharks reach the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in their history Smashfest! Charity Ping-Pong Challenge raises $20,000 Dominic Moore has teamed up with the NHLPA to crown hockey's ping-pong champion while raising money and awareness for concussion research. Wanting To Do More Joel Ward notched the Game 7 OT winner in Round 1, but has his eyes on continuing to contribute this spring Ward Selected First Overall at All-Star Player Fantasy Draft Rosters have been selected for Team Staal and Team Lidstrom at 2011 NHL All-Star Weekend	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1441
__label__wiki	0.93634	0.93634	DEP BOTANIST DISCOVERS RARE PLANT IN WARREN COUNTY NOT SEEN IN NEW JERSEY SINCE 1918 (18/P071) TRENTON – A rare and endangered plant species last seen in New Jersey a century ago has been discovered growing north of Worthington State Forest in Warren County, Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe announced today. A botanist with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Natural Lands Management discovered stalked woolgrass (Scirpus pedicellatus) along the shore of the Delaware River in July. The last sighting of the plant was in Sussex County on July 4, 1918. “This discovery is just the latest example to highlight the importance of managing our natural lands, so flora and fauna can continue to thrive,” Commissioner McCabe said. “The presence of this rare plant and others reminds us to appreciate and strengthen the ecological diversity in New Jersey so that future generations may enjoy these beautiful plants.” Stalked woolgrass is listed as endangered in New Jersey. Although it had not been seen in a century, stalked woolgrass and many other rare and historic plant species are assumed to exist if the habitat that supports the plant also exists. There are 10 other species of woolgrass that grow in the state, but stalked woolgrass is the rarest, having been observed only once before, by Edwin B. Bartram, a member of the Philadelphia Botanical Club, in 1918. “This is a very exciting discovery,” Assistant Commissioner for Natural and Historic Resources Ray Bukowski said. “It provides a conservation opportunity that didn’t exist before and it underscores the importance of never giving up hope of discovering new locations of our rarest species.” Stalked woolgrass belongs to a large family of plants known as sedges. It has grass-like leaves that form large clumps and produces flowering stems that grow up to five feet tall. The mature seeds are covered with feathery plumes, which gives the plant its characteristic wooly look. The species is more common in states north and west of New Jersey and reaches the southeasternmost limit of its range in this state. Its habitat is open marshes on floodplains and river shores. “Discoveries like this and the recent discovery of a new location for the federally threatened small whorled pogonia orchid in Stokes State Forest highlight the tremendous diversity of New Jersey’s native flora,” Division of Parks and Forestry Director Olivia Glenn said. “The Division works to conserve this diversity of species, which contributes to overall ecosystem health.” Botanist David Snyder discovered the stalked woolgrass on July 25 when he noticed that several seed heads sticking out of the water looked different from other sedges. The seed heads were the color of manila paper, one of the distinguishing characteristics of stalked woolgrass. At the time of the discovery, floodwaters covered much of the Delaware River shoreline. “I carefully waded out into the water to collect a sample of the sedge, but high water and heavy rain prevented a thorough survey,” Snyder said. “I was able to return on July 30 and after searching about a quarter-mile of the river shore, I was excited to discover a total of four clumps of stalked woolgrass.” A botanist’s diligent search of areas with suitable habitat at or near a plant’s previously known location can often result in discoveries such as Snyder’s. During and prior to his career with the DEP, Snyder has rediscovered more than 100 plant species previously considered “lost” from the flora of New Jersey. Habitats along the Delaware River are well documented for supporting many rare plant species and have attracted botanists for more than 200 years. The Natural Heritage Program, part of the New Jersey Forest Service’s Office of Natural Lands Management, identifies and tracks more than 800 endangered and rare plant species as well as rare and unique ecological communities. For more information on Scirpus pedicellatus, visit https://gobotany.newenglandwild.org/species/scirpus/pedicellatus/. For a complete list of plant species tracked by the Natural Heritage Program, visit www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/njplantlist.pdf. To view a report on the status and trends of endangered plants in New Jersey, visit https://www.nj.gov/dep/dsr/trends/pdfs/endangered-plant.pdf. For more information on the Division of Parks and Forestry, visit: www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/. Like the New Jersey State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewJerseyStateParks/. Follow the New Jersey State Park Service on Instagram @newjerseystateparks. Follow the DEP on Twitter @NewJerseyDEP.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1442
__label__wiki	0.747088	0.747088	JACKSON’S ANGEL DELIGHT! NME Nov 14, 2001 11:58 am GMT And to get himself in the mood for his work on 'Home Of The Angels' the star's bought himself an Oscar... MICHAEL JACKSON is reported to be co-directing and contributing music to the forthcoming movie ‘HOME OF THE ANGELS’. The self-styled King Of Pop will co-direct the project with friend Bryan Michael Stoller, according to Rolling Stone in the US. Speaking about the film, which will be shot in Canada next spring, Stoller said the film is based on a “young boy”. He commented: “It’s about a young boy about eight-years-old. He finds himself in and out of orphanages. It’s kind of ‘Stand By Me’ with a little bit of ‘Oliver’. It’s a dramatic piece, not a musical. It’s a pretty serious piece too. And it’s sort of all about growing up, and who to trust, and him being afraid of trusting people because the people he cares about tend to go away. It’s a pretty emotional piece.” It is expected that Jackson will contribute music to the film also. Stoller continued: “The songs he writes will probably be the opening title, closing credits. It will be probably more ballads, because of the material. We haven’t really talked about this, but he may also write just instrumental music for the actual picture in certain places.” Actors involved in the project are currently unconfirmed, although Stoller said he thought with Jackson‘s backing there will be little trouble finding stars to contribute their time. It’s also reported today that the singer has spent £1million on the actual Oscar statuette awarded to ‘Gone With The Wind’ for best picture. Stoller said Jacko displayed it in his living room in a glass cabinet.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1444
__label__wiki	0.700166	0.700166	Recycling centre decision meeting Updated: Wednesday, June 9, 2010 (09:02) NORTH Devon Council s planning committee will meet today (Wednesday) to decide whether to approve plans for a brand new recycling centre of excellence at Roundswell. Proposals for the conversion and extension of a former meat processing plant to allow f NORTH Devon Council's planning committee will meet today (Wednesday) to decide whether to approve plans for a brand new recycling "centre of excellence" at Roundswell.Proposals for the conversion and extension of a former meat processing plant to allow for the relocation of the council's Works Unit from Seven Brethren, are being recommended for approval.The council's lead member for waste and recycling, Cllr Rodney Cann, said the new site would enable the council to maximise the benefits for its customers."It's a very exciting project and we are taking extensive steps to be good neighbours to the people who live nearby, including moving the access and extensive landscaping."It's designed to be a recycling centre of excellence that will last us for the next 30-50 years. There will be an education facility there as well as a viewing gallery."It will provide us with an opportunity to enable us to recycle a greater variety of goods and also help us to maximise the value of the recycled goods."For example, cardboard will be recycled instead of shredded and composted, as it is now.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1445
__label__cc	0.687816	0.312184	New guidelines for Pap smears Norton Healthcare / News / Services / Womens Care / New guidelines for Pap smears There is something new when it comes to when and how often a woman should have a Pap smear. By: Jackie Hays • Posted: January 24, 2014 OK, ladies, you’ve heard this before: Get your checkups! That includes a visit to your gynecologist for a mammogram, clinical breast exam and Pap smear. We know for a fact that early detection saves lives! There is something new, however, when it comes to when and how often a woman should have a Pap smear. That’s an internal exam during which your doctor collects cells from the cervix and sends them to be screened for abnormalities. For the past 60 years, a Pap smear has been part of every woman’s annual gynecological checkup. In response, death rates from cervical cancer have fallen more than 50 percent since the early 1920s, when cervical cancer was a leading killer. But based on what scientists have learned, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) now recommends Pap smears less often. Research shows there’s less than a 1 percent chance of a woman developing cervical cancer up to five years after a negative Pap smear. So instead of annual testing, the USPSTF now recommends: Pap smear once every three years for women between ages 21 and 65 No Pap smear for women under age 21 or over age 65 unless they have a history of gynecological problems Jonathan Reinstine, M.D., with Associates in OB/GYN, a Part of Norton Women’s Care, told me, “In addition to cost savings, it will protect some patients from overdiagnosis and false positives and possibly tissue damage from unnecessary treatments.” Nancy Newman, M.D., also with Associates in OB/GYN, points out that we now have a vaccine against the most common forms of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for up to 70 percent of all cervical cancers. And co-testing for HPV with the Pap smear will identify women who may be at higher risk for cervical cancer. According to Dr. Newman, what a woman should do also depends on her personal history. “These recommendations are always modified by a history of an abnormal Pap smear, a history of HPV infection, a history of smoking or the risk factor of a new partner,” she said. “The frequency of Pap smears is a decision that the patient and the physician will make together.” I have already talked with my gynecologist about the new guidelines and I have the screenings he recommends. I want to encourage you to take charge when it comes to your own health and preventive screenings. January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, an appropriate time to share these new recommendations with your women friends and schedule your annual visit.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1447
__label__wiki	0.825478	0.825478	#750 – 1934 3c National Parks: Mt. Rainier, Washington, souvenir sheet - Unused Stamp (small flaws) $45.00FREE with 9,940 points! - Used Stamp (small flaws) $40.00FREE with 12,100 points! - Classic First Day Cover camera Mint Stamp(s) Fine, Never Hinged Very Fine, Never Hinged - MM6002104x100mm 2 Horizontal Split-Back Mounts U.S. #750 1934 American Philatelic Exhibition Sheet National Parks Series – Mount Rainier Imperforate Issue Date: August 28, 1934 First City: Atlantic City, New Jersey Quantity Issued: 511,391 Printing Method: Flat Plate Press Perforation: None Color: Deep Violet On August 28, 1934, the Post Office Department issued U.S. #750 as a souvenir sheet in conjunction with the American Philatelic Society’s Convention and Exhibition being held in Atlantic City. The sheet contained six 3¢ stamps featuring the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Rainier. This stamp was just one of ten printed by the postal service that year for its National Parks series. U.S. #750 was produced on 120-subject plates, with 20 panes of six stamps each. Mount Rainier National Park Mount Rainier was formed by volcanic activity. And in the prehistoric past, debris flowing from Mount Rainier’s volcano formed the lands east of Tacoma and south of Seattle. At 14,410 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Cascade Range. Native Americans inhabited the park area up to 8,000 years ago. They called the mountain Takhoma, which loosely translates to “mother of all waters,” likely because the mountain’s glaciers provided water to the lakes and rivers in the area. The mountain is covered with over 35 square miles of glacier. Twenty-five “rivers of ice” flow out of or near its summit. The towering mountain captivated all those who saw it. One of the early Europeans to see it was British naval officer Captain George Vancouver, who saw it when he sailed into Puget Sound in 1792. He named the mountain after his friend, Rear Admiral Peter Rainier. In 1870, Hazard Stevens and P.B. Van Trump climbed to the top of Mt. Rainier by way of the Gibraltar Route. They were the first non-natives to make a documented ascent of the mountain. Then in 1883, James Longmire found a mineral spring while descending the mountain and opened a hotel and spa there. Some of the earliest calls for a national park to protect Mount Rainier and its glaciers date back to 1883. The Northern Pacific Railroad was a large supporter of the park idea, as it would increase the number of travelers heading west to visit the natural wonders. Over time the railroad’s proposal lost steam. However, on February 20, 1893, President Benjamin Harrison established the Pacific Forest Reserve, protecting a portion of the Cascade Mountains. The reserve protected a portion of Mount Rainier, but not the glaciers on its western side. The purpose of the reserve was to protect timber and watershed values, so many feared Rainier was in danger. This proclamation was a major force behind the renewed calls for a national park. Among those calling for the park was Bailey Willis, a geologist who had studied the mountain for the Northern Pacific a decade earlier. Later in 1893, he proposed the creation of Mount Rainier National Park at the annual meeting of the Geological Society of America. They supported his proposal and soon other organizations joined the cause. Both scientists and mountain clubs, such as the Appalachian Mountain Club and the Sierra Club, led by John Muir, led the campaign for the park. Members of all these organizations wrote articles for their cause and toured the country giving lectures on the importance of protecting the mountain. Within a year of the reserve’s creation, a national park bill was submitted to Congress. However, the process was slow, and legislation would be introduced five more times. But success was finally achieved on March 2, 1899, with the passage of the Mount Rainier National Park Act. This act protected the entire mountain along with almost 370 square miles surrounding it. Mount Rainier is notable as the first national park created from land already set aside as forest reserves. Though still considered an active and dangerous volcano (it last erupted in the mid-1880s), Mount Rainier is a popular ski destination. Paradise, Washington, located on the mountain’s south face, is one of the most frequently visited areas of the park. It has been called “the snowiest place on Earth,” with an average annual snowfall over 50 feet. A 93-mile-long footpath, the Wonderland Trail encircles Mount Rainier. Since 1915, it has guided adventurers past the park’s glaciers, waterfalls, forests, and canyons. Once only available to park rangers or mountaineers, the trail was improved for tourists in the 1920s, and promoted as offering the “most glorious trip in the world.” 1934 3c Mt. Rainer & 1c Yosemite Imperfs 1934 1c National Parks: Yosemite, California, souvenir sheet 1934 3c Byrd Antarctic Expedition, souvenir sheet 1933 1c Restoration of Fort Dearborn, souvenir sheet $28.50- $250.00 1933 3c Federal Building at Chicago, souvenir sheet #750a 1934 3c Mt Rainier Imperf single 1934 1c Yosemite, CA Imperf single 1934 3c World Map Imperf single 1933 3c Federal Building Imperf single 1936 3c Third International Philatelic Exposition, souvenir sheet 1933 1c Fort Dearborn Imperf single 1935 3c Byrd Antarctic Expedition $0.85- $300.00 1935 3c Peace of 1783 Sesquicentennial, no gum 1935 16c Great Seal of the United States Complete Set, 1934 National Parks Issue, 10v 1935 3c Wisconsin Tercentennial, imperf, no gum Complete Set, 1935 Commems 756-65, 10v 1935 3c Mothers of America, imperf, no gum 1935 3c National Parks: Mt. Rainier, Washington, souvenir sheet 1937 10c Society of Philatelic Americans Convention, souvenir sheet 1935 1c National Parks: Yosemite, souvenir sheet	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1449
__label__cc	0.572884	0.427116	by NATO Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller at the Kyiv Security Forum 13 Apr. 2018 - Mis à jour le: 13 Apr. 2018 14:56 ROSE GOTTEMOELLER [NATO Deputy Secretary General]: Oh, truly I'm glad to be back on this podium. I remember so well being here last year for this conference and the day… the very day I was here the visa-free regime was announced for Ukraine. It was a very exciting day, a very exciting session, and this is a very exciting conference. So, I want to thank you again, Mr Yatsenyuk, for inviting me today. It's quite an honour to be here and good to have a chance to talk to you. Because there has been a lot of progress toward reform in the last year. I wanted to take note as I open my remarks, about the law on national security that has passed its first reading now and that is a very important step. Of course, we at NATO hope that all of the basic principles, the important principles and ideals that are so important to Ukraine's democratic path will be incorporated in the final version, but we are heartened by the passing of the first reading of that bill. And beyond that bill, which is really, you know, part of NATO's core business, our experts have been working with your experts on it, but beyond the national security and defence arena, reforms have also been moving forward in other important areas; health, education, the welfare of the Ukrainian people, and it's impressive for me to have an opportunity to catch up on this as I am here in Kyiv. And I really want to say that it's been evident from the past year that there has been this kind of stability for a serious working environment here in Kyiv and really hope, from where I stand, that there will continuing opportunities to move forward across the reform agenda. It is so very important to continue that serious working process. But here this morning, our emphasis is to talk about the fog of peace and war. And indeed Clausewitz's old dictum about the fog of war has been clouded, because of Russia's use of hybrid, or as we call them sometimes, asymmetric techniques. This has created a fog of neither peace nor war, but of constant crisis and destabilisation. And, in the Donbass, sadly, hot conflict. Cyber-attacks, disinformation, election interference, the use of nerve agents … every day these dangers confront us now, with the goal of sowing disunity and breaking our resolve. No-one knows this better than Ukraine, who has been battling these techniques non-stop for the past four years. I know Ukraine has learned a lot about how to fight back. One expert told me last evening that Ukraine has now been more or less vaccinated against disinformation, prepared with the right anti-bodies to fight back. And I think that was a very important comment and I wanted to say how much NATO is looking forward to learning from your experience. We have been very glad in the past year that the joint NATO-Ukraine hybrid warfare platform, this is a platform that is focused on countering hybrid warfare, has been formed. And it's really an important element of how NATO can learn from your experience and learn from the best practices that you have put in place. A core question for us to discuss this morning is what we can do to deter and defend against hybrid or asymmetric threats. The core answer I think lies in this direction: we must be more aware and alert; we must be resilient to attacks, and; we must be ready to respond, perhaps asymmetrically. Let me give you a few examples, just to flesh out what I'm talking about. First of all, we must be more aware and alert; NATO has done a lot to reform our intelligence organisation over the past few years, and one of the key steps we have taken is to form a cell that is focused on the hybrid threats. Working very closely with the EU, by the way, who has also put in place such a cell. That is very, very important, to have that flow of intelligence information and to have intelligence-sharing. We have appreciated the work that Ukraine has been doing to share intelligence with us and we truly have benefited from that. It's building up a common awareness of what these threats are, what they can mean, how they can develop and how they can evolve. All of this is very important. In addition to which, we are I think making better use of open sources, alertness to patterns in the media, including social media. And these patterns, as we recognise them and understand them, they're already bearing fruit in how we react. I will steal… I hope the Minister of Defence of Lithuania won't mind me stealing an example from Lithuania's experience. You all of course remember the situation with Lisa in Germany, two summers ago, when there were stories out about a young girl of Russian origin being raped by immigrants in Germany, Muslim immigrants. Suddenly this very same story, which in the end had no truth to it, it was proven to have no truth to it, but really, really caused a lot of difficulties in Germany. Suddenly this story, or a version of it, appeared in Lithuania, with a young girl being assaulted by incoming German troops, serving in the battlegroup. And it was very interesting that the Lithuanian media immediately said, wait a minute, this is part of a pattern, we recognise something is not right here. Immediately dove into it and were able to uncover that there was no truth to the matter. So, it's just another point I want to make, and it's for all our press friends around the room, it's up to you too - Jens Stoltenberg likes to make this point a lot - it's up to you too to look critically at these stories and to try to dig down deep, if there is something in the pattern of the story that doesn’t seem right. We need to fight actively against disinformation and propaganda. Now, another area where I think we can continue to work successfully together is crisis management. We need to establish procedures then we need to exercise them regularly, so we can understand how good our decision-making is and we can recognise where there are gaps. We have had some very good crisis management procedures developed in recent years. We are ready to share these with partners. We are working to share them already with Ukraine and training and the exercising together with you will be very important. Another part of managing crises has been to share information and we have been delighted at the degree to which countries in the Alliance, but also partners, have been willing to share information about crises as they unfold, as in the past several weeks the UK has regularly shared very serious and very detailed information about the Skripal case. So, information-sharing, consultation, crisis management, it's all part of the same picture. Now, resilience across the board; I cannot talk more seriously about this matter in the cyber realm, to defend against attacks, energy security; to force back against the dominance of any single actor, such as Gazprom, and, I am sad to say it, CBRN response, Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear. We have to paying attention to the matter of CBRN resilience these days, and I think this too is an important area where our partners, as well as the Allies, can make an important difference, because clearly Ukraine has a lot of experience in the CBRN resilience realm. So, it's a very important area to work, but I am not happy, after all these years of struggling against weapons of mass destruction in so many ways, all of us working to reduce and eliminate chemical weapons, biological weapons, nuclear, radiological threats, that we must be concerned again about CBRN resilience. And that is a point I wanted to really underscore for you, that one of the great negative aspects of what Russia has been doing in recent years is this assault on the rule of international law and the important international regimes and treaties that have provided for so much predictability, and also for reductions and elimination of weapons of mass destruction. So, this is a very extraordinarily serious matter. Now finally, I think we must be ready to respond and perhaps do so asymmetrically. So, as I wrap up, I just wanted to make one remark and that is to express our appreciation and gratitude that Ukraine joined, together with all the Allies and many of our partners, in the response that the UK asked us to develop to the poisoning of Sergei Skripal and his daughter, with a nerve agent. And so, when Ukraine decided to expel 13 Russians from the representation here, it joined with many Allies, and with the NATO institution itself. We removed the accreditation of several… seven rather, Russians who were in the Mission to NATO, and Sec Gen decided not to extend accreditation to three more who had requested it. So, a total of ten Russian diplomats ended up not… either not being able to come to NATO or having to leave Brussels and leave our headquarters. And we have taken steps now to lower the number by ten of the ceiling of those in the Russian Mission at NATO. So, all of us have taken steps of that kind. We really appreciate Ukraine's solidarity and working together with us. It's that unity of response that I think has made an impression on the Kremlin, has made an impression on Moscow. So, we will see where it goes. But these are all steps I think we need to continue thinking about how to develop in a decisive way, as we move forward. So, thank you very much for your attention. I appreciate the opportunity. I'm feeling pretty all powerful up here on this box, so maybe I'll return to answer your questions. Thank you very much.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1453
__label__wiki	0.957212	0.957212	Project 25A Kora Class Guided Missile Corvettes 134 (14 officers) 16 x SS-N-25 anti-ship missiles, 2 x Strela-2M SAM launchers 1 x 76mm gun, 2 x 30mm AK-630 CIWS MR 352 Pozitiv-E (Cross Dome) air/surface search radar, Bharat 1245 navigation radar, BEL Rani navigation radar Chaff Launchers 4 x PK-10 chaff launchers 2 x towed torpedo decoys 2 x 7,100hp diesels 4,000nm at 16kt An aerial side view of the very first corvette in the Kora Class, INS Kora (P61). INS Karmuk (P64) sails at the Naval Base Visakhapatnam. Kora Class is fitted with two 30mm AK-630 CIWS. Kora Class aft helideck supports a HAL Chetak or a HAL Dhruv helicopter. Project 25A Kora Class guided missile corvettes were built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers for the Indian Navy. Outfitted at Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai, four of these corvettes replaced the Russian-designed Petya II Class corvettes. Kora Class is preceded by Khukri Class and succeeded by Kamorta Class corvettes. The Indian Navy ordered its first two vessels in April 1990 and the remaining two in October 1994. Keel for the first vessel in class, INS Kora (P61), was laid in January 1990. It was launched in September 1992 and commissioned in August 1998. INS Kirch (P62) was laid down in January 1992, launched in October 1995 and commissioned in January 2001. INS Kulish (P63) was laid in October 1995, launched in August 1997 and commissioned in August 2001. The last ship in class, INS Karmuk (P64), was laid down in August 1997 and launched in April 2001 ready for commissioning in February 2004. Kora Class design Designed by the naval design bureau of India under Project 25A, the indigenously built warships are armed with long-range anti-ship missiles, super rapid guns and a close-in weapon system (CIWS). The design incorporates early warning radars and an electronic warfare system. The sleek lines and low radar cross section enable the vessels to deeply penetrate enemy lines. The ship is fitted with fin stabilisers and powered by two diesel engines that provide a total power of 14,200shp. “The warship boasts missiles, super rapid guns and a CIWS.” The corvette has an overall length of 91.1m, beam of 10.45m and draught of 3.07m. The full load displacement of the vessel is 1,350t. Kora Class can complement a total crew size of 134. Accommodation facilities are provided for 79 crew members. Kora Class missiles The Kora Class is armed with four quadruple KT-184 launchers on either side of the bridge. Each launcher can fire four 3M-24E (Nato code name: SS-N-25 Switchblade) anti-ship missiles. The 3M-24E missile is guided by active radar homing and can carry 145kg warhead to a range of 130km at Mach 0.9 speed. Two shoulder-launched Strela-2M (Nato code name: SA-N-5 Grail) SAM launchers serve the air defence purposes. The Strela-2M has a range of 4.2km and a speed of Mach 1.75. INS Kulish is equipped with two Igla SAM launchers. Naval guns The corvette is armed with a 76mm AK-176 dual-purpose gun and two 30mm AK-630 CIWS. AK-176 can fire at the rate of 120RPM to a range of 15.5km, while AK-630 can fire 3,000RPM to a range of 2km. INS Kirch and INS Kulish are fitted with a 76mm Otobreda super rapid gun firing 120RPM. Kora Class helicopter system The corvette features an aft helicopter deck to support the operations of a single HAL Chetak or a HAL Dhruv helicopter. The warship is not equipped with hangar and maintenance facilities. Sensors and radar “The sleek lines and low radar cross section enable the vessels to effectively penetrate enemy lines.” The sensor suite includes a MR-352 Pozitiv-E (Cross Dome) air or surface search radar, Bharat 1245 navigation radar and BEL Rani navigation radar. The MR-352 radar can track targets within a range of 130km. Fire control is provided by Garpun-Bal and MR-123 radars. The Garpun-Bal radar mounted on the bridge operates in X-band. Countermeasures The corvette is fitted with the Ajanta P Mk II Electronic Support Measures system. There are four PK-10 chaff launchers and two towed torpedo decoys to deceive incoming anti-ship missiles and torpedoes. PK-10 is a 10 tube 120mm barrage chaff launcher that can fire 80 rounds at a time. Kora Class is powered by two diesel engines driving two controllable pitch propellers through two shafts. Each engine is rated at 7,100hp. Four diesel alternators rated at 350kW are provided for power generation. The propulsion system provides a top speed of 25kt, an average speed of 16kt and a maximum range of 4,000nm.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1454
__label__wiki	0.749041	0.749041	Dana Schutz, Marc Newson, Oliver Jeffers, and More Must See New York Shows Whitewall, review by Pearl Fontaine. Read the full story. Bryce Wolkowitz Gallery and The High Line Now—February 16 Oliver Jeffers is having a New York moment. His solo show “For All We Know” is currently on view at Bryce Wolkowitz gallery, while his installation “The Moon, The Earth, and Us” just opened on the High Line between 15th and 16th streets. At Bryce Wolkowitz, you’ll find a new series of oil paintings that open the door into a dreamlike world inhabited by deep-sea divers, astronauts, sinking ships, burning matches, and floating pianos. Jeffers utilizes years of observation to create his imaginary universe where the night sky and ocean are a constant, and brief glimpses at the interconnectedness of the world leave his viewers wondering, and ready for more. “The Moon, The Earth and Us” public work includes two large sculptures of the Moon and the Earth, allowing passersby to experience an astronaut’s point of view, seeing the entities in an accurate depiction of size and distance from one another. Aiming to highlight the wholeness of our planet as a single organism, the works also pose questions around the manmade borders that divide, rather than unite humankind. In Press, News ← Oliver Jeffers Reading and Signing on the High LineOliver Jeffers' Out-Of-This-World Art Installation Takes You Far From Earth → Oliver Jeffers makes art. From figurative painting and installation to illustration and picture-book making, Oliver Jeffers’ work takes many forms. His distinctive paintings have been exhibited in multiple cities, including Lazarides Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery in London, the Brooklyn Museum and Spring Break Fair (Armory Week) in New York, and Gestalten Space in Berlin. Oliver’s picture books — including The Incredible Book Eating Boy, This Moose Belongs to Me, The Day Crayons Quit and its sequel The Day The Crayons Came Home ( both #1 NYTimes Bestsellers) and Once Upon an Alphabet — have been translated into over 30 languages. Working in collaboration with Studio AKA, Oliver’s second book Lost and Found was developed into an animated short film that has received over sixty awards, including a BAFTA for Best Animated Short Film. Picture book awards include the The New York Times Best Illustrated Books, Smarties Award, Irish Book of the Year, The Red House Book Award, British Book Design Award, and The Blue Peter Book of the Year. Oliver won a NY Emmy in 2010 for his collaborative work with the artist and director Mac Premo. In 2013 Oliver co-directed with Mac Premo the video for Ordinary Love by U2, and more recently made art for, and helped art direct, U2’s Innocence and Experience World Tour. Oliver is from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and now lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. REPRESENTATION: Publishing enquries: paul@bell-lomax.co.uk Event/publicity enquiries USA: penguinauthorvisits@gmail.com Event/publicity enquiries rest of world: childrens.publicity@harpercollins.co.uk Art/painting enquiries: Lazarides Picture Book Art: ChrisBeetlesGallery,London TheIllustrationCupboard,London DownloadCV	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1459
__label__wiki	0.929529	0.929529	Fearsome new stage begins as Florence floods inland rivers Thousands of people have been evacuated already As the death toll from Florence mounted and hundreds of people were pulled from flooded homes, North Carolina is bracing for what could be the next stage of a still-unfolding disaster: widespread, catastrophic river flooding. After blowing ashore as a hurricane with 90 mph (145 kph) winds, Florence virtually parked itself much of the weekend atop the Carolinas as it pulled warm water from the ocean and hurled it onshore. Storm surges, flash floods and winds scattered destruction widely and the Marines, the Coast Guard, civilian crews and volunteers used helicopters, boats and heavy-duty vehicles to conduct rescues Saturday. The death toll from the hurricane-turned-tropical depression climbed to 11. Rivers are swelling toward record levels, forecasters now warn, and thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate for fear that the next few days could bring the most destructive round of flooding in North Carolina history. Stream gauges across the region showed water levels rising steadily, with forecasts calling for rivers to crest Sunday and Monday at or near record levels: The Little River, the Cape Fear, the Lumber, the Neuse, the Waccamaw and the Pee Dee were all projected to burst their banks, possibly flooding nearby communities. READ MORE: Watch hurricane Florence make landfall in the US READ MORE: Hurricane Center: Florence makes landfall in N. Carolina READ MORE: ‘It’s coming straight for us’: Canadians in Florence’s path prepare for storm Authorities ordered the immediate evacuation of up to 7,500 people living within a mile (1.6 kilometres) of a stretch of the Cape Fear River and the Little River, about 100 miles (160 kilometres) from the North Carolina coast. The evacuation zone included part of the city of Fayetteville, population 200,000. John Rose owns a furniture business with stores less than a mile (1.6 kilometres) from the river. Rain-soaked furniture workers helped him quickly empty more than 1,000 mattresses from a warehouse in a low-lying strip mall. “It’s the first time we’ve ever had to move anything like this,” Rose said. “If the river rises to the level they say it’s going to, then this warehouse is going to be under water.” On U.S. Route 401 nearby, rain rose in ditches and around unharvested tobacco crops along the road. Ponds had begun to overflow, and creeks passing under the highway churned with muddy, brown water. Further along the Cape Fear River, grass and trees lining the banks were partly submerged, still well below a highway bridge crossing it. “It’s hard to believe it’s going to get that high,” says Elizabeth Machado, who came to the bridge to check on the river. Fayetteville’s city officials, meanwhile, got help from the Nebraska Task Force One search and rescue team to evacuate some 140 residents of an assisted living facility in Fayetteville to a safer location at a church. Already, more than 2 feet (60 centimetres) of rain has fallen in places, and forecasters saying there could be an additional 1 1/2 feet (45 centimetres) before Sunday is out. “I cannot overstate it: Floodwaters are rising, and if you aren’t watching for them, you are risking your life,” Gov. Roy Cooper said. As of 11 p.m., Florence was centred about 40 miles (65 kilometres) east-southeast of Columbia, South Carolina, crawling west at 3 mph (6 kph) — not even as fast as a person walking. Its winds were down to 40 mph (75 kph). In Goldsboro, North Carolina, home of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, roads that frequently flood were already closed Saturday by rushing water. Dozens of electric repair trucks massed to respond to damage expected to hit central North Carolina as rainwater collected into rivers headed to the coast. Hundreds of thousands of outages have been reported. A creek that feeds into the Neuse was rushing over a road near Phil Eubanks’ home Saturday. Another creek backed up into their basement Friday, but based on past experience Eubanks and his wife think the worst is over for them. “I didn’t sleep last night. It was creeping up those steps” from the basement, said his jittery wife, Ellen. “It came up. It went down today. I think we’re OK.” On Saturday evening, Duke Energy said heavy rains caused a slope to collapse at a coal ash landfill at a closed power station outside Wilmington, North Carolina. Duke spokeswoman Paige Sheehan said about 2,000 cubic yards (1,530 cubic meters) of ash were displaced at the Sutton Plant and that contaminated storm water likely flowed into the plant’s cooling pond. Sutton was mothballed in 2013 and the company has been excavating ash to remove to safer lined landfills. The ash left behind when coal is burned contains toxic heavy metals, including lead and arsenic. In New Bern , along the coast, homes were completely surrounded by water, and rescuers used inflatable boats to reach people Saturday. Kevin Knox and his family were rescued by boat from their flooded brick home with the help of Army Sgt. Johan Mackie, whose team used a phone app to locate people in distress. “Amazing. They did awesome,” said Knox, who was stranded with seven others including a boy in a life vest. New Bern spokeswoman Colleen Roberts said 455 people were safely rescued in the town of 30,000 residents. She called damage to thousands of buildings “heart-wrenching.” Across the Trent River from New Bern, Jerry and Jan Andrews returned home after evacuating to find carp flopping in their backyard near the porch stairs. Coast Guard helicopters took off across the street to rescue stranded people from rooftops and swamped cars. The Marines rescued about 20 civilians from floodwaters near Camp Lejeune, using Humvees and amphibious assault vehicles, the base reported. The dead included a mother and baby killed by a falling tree in Wilmington, North Carolina. South Carolina recorded its first death from the storm, with officials saying a 61-year-old woman was killed when her car hit a tree that fell across a highway. Three died in one inland county, Duplin, because of water on roads and flash floods, authorities said. A husband and wife died in a storm-linked house fire, officials said, and an 81-year-old man died after falling while packing to evacuate. Allen G. Breed, The Associated Press Typhoon lashes south China after killing 36 in Philippines B.C. to have only one store selling cannabis on first day of legalization	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1461
__label__cc	0.742134	0.257866	Λέξεις κλειδιά για την αναζήτηση: The first of the two S-400 batteries will be positioned in Akıncı Air Base ΟΝΗΣΙΛΟΣ > The first of the two S-400 batteries will be positioned in Akıncı Air Base The first of the two S-400 batteries will be positioned in Akıncı Air Base PRESS AND INFORMATION OFFICE 4/7/2019 The first of the two S-400 batteries will be positioned in Akıncı Air Base Under the title “Peace deployment to S-400: It will not link to NATO radar”, Turkish daily Cumhuriyet (03.07.19, http://www.cumhuriyet.com.tr/haber/turkiye/1469462/S-400_lere__baris_konuslanmasi___NATO_radarina_baglanmayacak.html) reports that… ΑΣΦΑΛΕΙΑ-ΑΜΥΝΑ, ΕΝΟΠΛΕΣ ΔΥΝΑΜΕΙΣ, ΤΟΥΡΚΙΚΗ ΑΠΕΙΛΗ NATO radar, S-400 batteries, The first of the two S-400 batteries will be positioned in Akıncı Air Base	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1462
__label__wiki	0.992776	0.992776	MTA worker falsely arrested in 2005 high-speed Bronx cop chase hopes 2017 brings new opportunities By Ben Kochman and Stephen Rex Brown Demoyne Anderson spent years in court and refused all plea deals. (Howard Simmons/New York Daily News) Eleven years and three trials later, a city transit worker whose life was derailed after he says he was falsely accused of leading cops on a high-speed chase in the Bronx has finally cleared his name. Former MTA station cleaner Demoyne Anderson has maintained his innocence ever since he says cops mistook him for the driver of a drug-filled SUV that sped away from police and crashed on Jan. 27, 2005. But it took three criminal trials — and the arresting officer admitting to fudging evidence in other cases — to clear him of the charges. Now, after settling his false arrest lawsuit with the city for $725,000, Anderson said he hopes the new year will bring a clean slate. "It felt like ultimate vindication for me, that everything I said from day one was the truth," Anderson, 54, told the Daily News when asked about the agreement hashed out in Bronx Supreme Court. On the night of his arrest, Anderson said he had just picked up his MTA paycheck and was walking to the movies when he witnessed the black SUV crash on the Unionport Bridge in the east Bronx. As he ran to help, he saw a man jump out and make a run for it. Police soon arrived and surrounded Anderson. Ignoring his cries that he was an innocent bystander, they slapped him in cuffs, beat him, pepper sprayed him and accused him of being the driver, Anderson alleged in the suit. "You black motherf----r, you almost hit me, you could have killed me," one of the officers said, according to Anderson. One of the cops who Anderson says punched him was Sgt. William Eiseman, who years later would admit to lying under oath in drug cases — during the same time period as Anderson's bust. NYPD Sgt. William Eiseman pleaded guilty to falsifying documents in cases during the same time period as Anderson’s arrest. (Siegel.Jefferson) Eiseman was booted from the force in 2011 after pleading guilty to perjury. Cops charged Anderson — who to that point had no criminal record — with felony pot possession and assaulting an officer after finding a duffel bag of marijuana in the SUV. There began the father-of-four's years-long battle for justice. Unwilling to accept a plea deal for something he didn't do, Anderson went to Bronx court every month for years as he awaited trial, sometimes rolling his infant daughter into the courtroom in a stroller. He testified in his own defense at three separate trials, beginning in June 2008. The first two ended with the jury unable to reach a verdict on the more serious charges but finding him guilty of misdemeanor resisting arrest. At the final trial, prosecutors did not call Eiseman as a witness, and jurors acquitted Anderson of the felonies. He successfully appealed the remaining resisting arrest charge – after bringing up Eiseman's history of lying about evidence. But the years of legal limbo had taken their toll. The MTA suspended Anderson while the case was pending. He was eventually offered his job back, but left after an MTA arbitrator ruled that he would not get back pay for the years he missed. His father, who was also an MTA worker, had a heart attack and died during one of the arbitration hearings. “This could have happened to anybody walking down the street,” Anderson said. “But with the help of my family, my friends, and God, I got through it.” (Howard Simmons/New York Daily News) Even now, with his record wiped clean, Anderson said the lingering stench of his arrest has made it difficult to find a job. His lawyer, Andrew Hoffman, said Anderson's ordeal shows the perils of a criminal justice system rigged against the accused. "The presumption of innocence is, unfortunately, largely a myth," Hoffman told The News. Among the evidence that authorities ignored was that the SUV had Georgia plates tied to another man who had a history of drug arrests, Hoffman said. Anderson's lawsuit also alleged that the officers – including Eiseman – had scattered the contents of his wallet inside the bag in a desperate bid to tie Anderson to the drugs. He said prosecutors had offered to let him plead guilty to lesser charges over the years. But he said he could not have looked his children in the eye after admitting to a crime he did not commit. Anderson said he hopes his ordeal inspires others who believe they've been falsely accused. "This could have happened to anybody walking down the street," he said. "But with the help of my family, my friends, and God, I got through it." police chases exonerations	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1463
__label__wiki	0.929302	0.929302	Music\|Contemplations on the Life of Simone Weil, in a Range of Somber Hues Music \| Music Review Contemplations on the Life of Simone Weil, in a Range of Somber Hues By ANTHONY TOMMASINI AUG. 14, 2008 Loss, transformation, pain and the inevitability of mortality may seem rather heavy-going philosophical themes for the Mostly Mozart festival, of all ventures, to be grappling with. But in recent years this once-stodgy festival, which had tried repeatedly to peddle Mozart & Friends as appealing summer fare, has been re-energized by its artistic director, Jane Moss, and music director, Louis Langrée, who have brought adventure, challenging contemporary works and provocatively varied repertory to its offerings. The festival opened last month with a performance of Mahler’s “Lied von der Erde” (in its chamber orchestra version) and ends next week with a program pairing Strauss’s autumnal “Metamorphosen” and Mozart’s somberly elegant Mass in C minor. For all the poignant darkness of such works, they offer elements of sublime uplift. There is not much uplift, though, in the Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho’s wrenching and gravely beautiful “Passion de Simone,” which the festival presented Wednesday night at the Rose Theater in its American premiere, the first of three performances. This dramatic work, essentially a 75-minute oratorio for soprano, chorus and orchestra, explores the life and writings of the Jewish French philosopher, mystic and social activist Simone Weil, who died at 34 in 1943 in England. In solidarity with her compatriots in concentration camps, Weil, who was sickly all her life, refused to eat more than meager rations, virtually starving herself. Ms. Saariaho, 55, is composer-in-residence at Mostly Mozart this summer, and “La Passion de Simone” can be seen as the festival’s defining work. This is the third dramatic piece Ms. Saariaho has collaborated on with the Lebanese-born writer Amin Maalouf, who, like the composer, lives in Paris. The text is in French. Their two previous operas were grimly involving: “L’Amour de Loin,” a medieval romantic fable that ends in tragedy, and “Adriana Mater,” which recently had its American premiere at the Santa Fe Opera, a brutal tale of a woman raped by a neighbor in a war-torn country. “La Passion de Simone” may be the most despairing of the three. It is unremittingly bleak and probably too long. Still, it is hard to resist the sheer, misty allure of Ms. Saariaho’s thick-textured, rhapsodic music and the unusually inventive dramatic structure of this work, especially as presented here. The soprano Dawn Upshaw gave a mesmerizing performance, joined by the superb choral ensemble London Voices (Terry Edwards, music director) and the excellent City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, directed by the Finnish conductor Susanna Malkki in her impressive New York debut. The production was conceived and directed by Peter Sellars. (Lincoln Center was one of four institutions that commissioned the work.) This oratorio, which Ms. Saariaho has likened to Bach’s passions, is subtitled a “Musical Journey in 15 Stations,” as in Stations of the Cross, each one offering a contemplation upon an aspect of Weil’s life and beliefs. Rather than presenting Weil as the central character of a biographical drama, the story is told by a narrator, Ms. Upshaw, dressed in a gray housedress. She sits at and circles a bare wood table, poring over Weil’s journals, though she is visited by a silent spectral figure, a dancer, Michael Schumacher, dressed like a barefoot prisoner, who enters Ms. Upshaw’s solitary room through a lone door. The narrator refers to Weil ambiguously as “my elder sister, my little sister.” Weil could have been both, since she “refused to grow older,” as the narrator says with barely concealed resentment, “preferring to die.” The narrator is really just Weil’s metaphorical sister. In any event, telling Weil’s story through another voice lessens the anguish and ennobles her death. In a theatrically inspired stroke, quotes from Weil’s writings are incorporated into the score as an electronic element, recorded by Dominique Blanc. As always, Ms. Saariaho’s orchestral writing is wondrous. She masterfully builds shimmering, organic sonorities from multilayered orchestra elements that blend natural and electronic sounds. Her tonally wayward harmonies are alive with pungent dissonance. Yet, as the collages of orchestral sound flow by inexorably, they come across as grounded and elemental. And the soprano part deftly balances ruminative lyricism with conversational naturalness. Still, the orchestral thickness becomes tiring. Those moments when the wash of sound and textures thins out come as a relief, for example, in stretches of the choral writing with the choristers singing in block harmony, supported by declamatory chords in the orchestra. Suddenly the precision of Ms. Saariaho’s ear for harmony is vividly evident. The score does have moments that pulsate with rhythmic energy. Sometimes all it takes is a simple ostinato in the percussion section, or a riff that swings in a four-squared, hammering meter, as when Ms. Upshaw describes Weil’s months spent bound to a machine: Weil took a leave from her teaching job to work incognito in two factories, the better to understand the plight of workers. For all the beauty of the score, though, it wants variety. Toward the end, when I started to drift and thought the work was dragging, I felt badly for being impatient with such complex and sumptuous orchestral music. Still, as in “Adriana Mater,” Ms. Saariaho goes too far at times in striving for a ritualistic spell. Ms. Upshaw’s singing is beyond beautiful — direct, humane and true. Mr. Sellars has worked out some intricately expressive gestures for her and Mr. Schumacher, who entwine limbs and legs. Even in her movements, Ms. Upshaw was as compelling as her dancer partner. Ms. Malkki, who conducted the premiere of this work in Vienna in 2006, draws assured, richly colorful and enveloping playing from the orchestra. By the end, “La Passion de Simone” does present a small element of uplift. Despite her confounding philosophy and acts of self-abnegation, Weil left behind her writings, her journal. In a triumphant moment, Ms. Upshaw, clutching Weil’s journal, sings, “Your passion defeated oblivion,” and, “Your grace is liberated from the gravity of the world.” “La Passion de Simone” will be performed Friday and Sunday at the Rose Theater, 60th Street and Broadway; (212) 721-6500, lincolncenter.org. A version of this review appears in print on , on Page E3 of the New York edition with the headline: Contemplations on the Life of Simone Weil, in a Range of Somber Hues. Order Reprints\| Today's Paper\|Subscribe	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1464
__label__cc	0.637778	0.362222	Federal Registers Cotton Dust Standard (29 CFR 1910.1043); Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Approval of the Information-Collection (Paperwork) Requirements Fed Register #: 66:63069-63070 [Docket No. ICR-1218-0061(2002)] AGENCY: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Labor. ACTION: Request for comment. SUMMARY: OSHA requests comment concerning its proposal to decrease the existing burden-hour estimates for, and to extend OMB approval of, the collection-of-information requirements specified by the Cotton Dust Standard (29 CFR 1910.1043).1 This standard protects employees from occupational exposures to cotton dust; cotton-dust exposure causes pulmonary disease (e.g., byssinosis) that may result in death and serious illness. DATES: Submit written comments on or before February 4, 2002. ADDRESSES: Submit written comments to the Docket Office, Docket No. ICR-1218-0061(2001), OSHA, U.S. Department of Labor, Room N-2625, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210; telephone (202) 693-2350. Commenters may transmit written comments of 10 pages or less by facsimile to (202) 693-1648. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Todd Owen, Directorate of Policy, OSHA, U.S. Department of Labor, Room N-3641, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210; telephone (202) 693-2444. A copy of the Agency's Information-Collection Request (ICR) supporting the need for the information collections specified by the Cotton Dust Standard is available for inspection and copying in the Docket Office, or by requesting a copy from Todd Owen at (202) 693-2444. For electronic copies of the ICR contact OSHA on the Internet at http://www.osha.gov/law-regs.html, and select "Information Collection Requests." I. Background The Department of Labor, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent (i.e., employer) burden, conducts a preclearance consultation program to provide the public with an opportunity to comment on proposed and continuing information-collection requirements in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA-95) (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). This program ensures that information is in the desired format, reporting burden (time and cost) is minimal, collection instruments are understandable, and OSHA's estimate of the information-collection burden is correct. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of the 1970 (the "Act") authorizes information collection by employers as necessary or appropriate for enforcement of the Act, or for developing information regarding the causes and prevention of occupational injuries, illnesses, and accidents (29 U.S.C. 657). The major information-collection requirements in the Cotton Dust Standard (§ 1910.1043; the "Standard") specify that employers must: Perform exposure monitoring, including initial, periodic, and additional monitoring; notify each employee in writing of their monitoring results within 20 days after receiving these results; establish a written compliance program; implement a respiratory-protection program in accordance with § 1910.134 (OSHA's Respiratory Protection Standard); and develop a written program of work practices to minimize cotton-dust exposure. Other paperwork provisions of the Standard require employers to provide employees with medical examinations, including initial examinations for new employees and periodic examinations for other employees exposed to cotton dust under specific conditions. As part of the medical-surveillance program, employers must give written information to the examining physicians, and obtain from these physicians a written opinion regarding the employees' medical results and exposure limitations. Additional collection-of-information requirements mandate that employers provide training to employees prior to their initial job assignment, at least annually thereafter, if a change occurs in an employee's job assignment or work process, or if an employee indicates a need for retraining. Employers must also post a copy of the Standard and its appendices in a public location at the workplace, and make copies available to employees. On request, the employer must provide OSHA compliance officers and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) with the training material required by this provision. Moreover, employers are to post warning signs in each work area if the concentration of cotton dust is above the permissible exposure limit. The Standard also specifies that employers must establish and maintain exposure-monitoring and medical-surveillance records for each employee covered by these requirements. In addition, they must make any record required by the Standard available to OSHA compliance officers and NIOSH for examination and copying, and provide exposure-monitoring and medical-surveillance records to employees and their designated representatives. Finally, employers who cease to do business within the period specified for retaining exposure-monitoring and medical-surveillance records, and who have no successor employer, must transmit these records to NIOSH. Employers who remain in business for the entire retention period must, before disposing of these records, notify NIOSH of the impending disposal and transfer the records to NIOSH if it requests the records within three months of being so notified. II. Special Issues for Comment OSHA has a particular interest in comments on the following issues: Whether the proposed information -collection requirements are necessary for the proper performance of the Agency's functions, including whether the information is useful; The accuracy of OSHA's estimate of the burden (time and cost) of the information-collection requirements, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; The quality, utility, and clarity of the information collected; and Ways to minimize the burden on employers who must comply; for example, by using automated or other technological information-collection and -transmission techniques. III. Proposed Action OSHA is proposing to decrease the existing burden-hour estimate for, and to extend OMB approval of, the collection-of-information requirements specified by the Standard. The Agency proposes to reduce the current burden-hour estimate from 75,696 hours to 74, 172 hours, a total reduction of 1,524 hours. Although OSHA has added burden hours for employee training, these additional burden hours are offset by a substantial decrease in the estimated number of employees exposed to cotton dust. In addition, the Agency notes that total capital costs determined in this ICR, compared to the previous ICR, rose from $6,059,756 to $6,526,314; this additional cost resulted principally from an increase in the cost of administering a medical examination from $130 to $150. OSHA will summarize the comments submitted in response to this notice, and will include this summary in its request to OMB to extend the approval of this information-collection requirements. Type of Review: Extension of currently approved information-collection requirements. Title: Cotton Dust Standard (29 CFR 1910.1043). OMB Control No.: 1218-0061. Affected Public: Business or other for-profit; Federal government; State, local, or tribal governments. No. of Respondents: 570. Frequency of Response: On occasion; semi-annually; annually. Average Time per Response: Response times vary from five minutes to maintain a required record to two hours to conduct exposure monitoring. Estimates Total Burden Hours: 74,172. Estimated Cost (Operation and Maintenance): $6,526,314. IV. Authority and Signature John L. Henshaw, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, directed the preparation of this notice. The authority for this notice is the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3506) and Secretary of Labor's Order No. 3-2000 (65 FR 50017). Signed at Washington, DC, on November 29, 2001. John L. Henshaw, Assistant Secretary of Labor. [FR Doc. 01-30006 Filed 12-3-01; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4510-26-M Footnote (1) Based on its assessment of the paperwork requirements contained in this standard, the Agency estimates that the total burden hours decreased compared to its previous burden-hour estimate. Under this notice, OSHA is not proposing to revise these paperwork requirements in any substantive manner, only to decrease the burden hours imposed by the existing paperwork requirements. (Back to text)	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1469
__label__wiki	0.552259	0.552259	US Labor Department cites Advanced Strobe Products with proposed fines of more than $50,000 for worker exposure to acid, lead without proper protection Contact: Scott Allen Rhonda Burke Email: allen.scott@dol.gov burke.rhonda@dol.gov US Labor Department cites Advanced Strobe Products with proposed fines of more than $50,000 for worker exposure to acid, lead without proper protection HARWOOD HEIGHTS, Ill. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Advanced Strobe Products Inc. with 16 health and safety violations carrying proposed fines of $50,785. OSHA investigated the company's facility in Harwood Heights after receipt of a complaint about a worker receiving emergency medical care for a leg burn due to an acid spill. The company failed to provide and ensure the use of proper personal protective equipment for the worker. "Advanced Strobe Products Inc. has a responsibility to protect workers from exposure to acid, hazardous chemicals, lead and cadmium used in their manufacturing facility," said Diane Turek, OSHA's area director for the Chicago North Area Office in Des Plaines. "OSHA takes complaints of worker injuries and exposure to hazardous materials seriously, and is committed to protecting workers on the job and educating employers about safety and health regulations." A total of 15 serious violations were cited, including failure to ensure use of personal protective equipment, such as impervious aprons, boots, and eye and face protection to prevent exposure to acid and other hazardous materials; provide an emergency eyewash station in the acid room; develop a respiratory protection program; and ensure the use of National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-certified respirators for the hazards present. The company also failed to provide medical evaluations and fit-testing for workers required to use respirators. OSHA also cited the lack of machine guarding on a welder; failure to train workers on safety precautions and the use of hazardous chemicals, such as acid, lead and cadmium, surfaces not maintained free of lead and cadmium; not developing a hazard communication program; and for the use of a spray booth constructed of wood, which is a combustible material. A serious violation occurs when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known. One other-than-serious violation was cited for failing to record the acid spill injury that occurred in January 2013 on the OSHA injury and illness log. OSHA initiated the complaint inspection in February. An other-than-serious violation is one that has a direct relationship to job safety and health, but probably would not cause death or serious physical harm. The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. To ask questions, obtain compliance assistance, file a complaint, or report workplace hospitalizations, fatalities or situations posing imminent danger to workers, the public should call OSHA's toll-free hotline at 800-321-OSHA (6742) or the agency's Chicago North Area Office at 847-803-4800. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions exist for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1470
__label__wiki	0.567221	0.567221	U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA cites Orlowski Co. Inc. for numerous willful workplace health and safety violations Contact: Scott Allen or Brad Mitchell Federal action proposes $175,600 penalties for Chicago-based company CHICAGO -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Orlowski Co. Inc., a building masonry company based in Chicago, for multiple alleged willful and serious violations of federal workplace safety and health standards. As a result of an inspection initiated in February, OSHA has issued citations for five willful violations with proposed penalties totaling $175,000. The willful violations address Orlowski Co. Inc.'s failure to provide fall protection on scaffolds and hoist equipment and its failure to provide fall protection for employees working at or near floor holes at the construction site. OSHA defines a willful violation as one committed with plain indifference to or intentional disregard for employee safety and health. OSHA also issued a citation for a serious violation with a proposed $600 fine for failing to initiate and maintain a safety and health program. "Falls at construction sites are preventable," said Gary Anderson, director of OSHA's area office in Calumet City, Ill. "They are tragedies that can be avoided if an employer is dedicated to protecting employees. Employers must remain vigilant to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. Failure to do so will result in close scrutiny by this agency." Orlowski Construction, reportedly a predecessor company to Orlowski Co. Inc., has a judgment pending in the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, for $409,195 for unpaid OSHA penalties from 17 previous inspections. Also pending before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission is a citation involving Orlowski Co. Inc. for alleged violations of OSHA's fall protection standard with penalties totaling $56,600 involving an investigation that occurred in November 2007. Orlowski Co. Inc. has approximately 23 employees who perform masonry work on building exteriors. The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to request and participate in an informal conference with OSHA or to contest them before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. OSHA operates a vigorous enforcement program, conducting more than 39,000 inspections in fiscal year 2007 and exceeding its inspection goals in each of the last eight years. In fiscal year 2007, OSHA found nearly 89,000 violations of its standards and regulations. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to promote the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. U.S. Department of Labor releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format (large print, Braille, audiotape or disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1471
__label__cc	0.72949	0.27051	OSHA lookback review concludes Lead in Construction Standard is still needed OSHA Trade Release Trade News Release Contact: Office of Communications WASHINGTON -- The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced the outcome of its Lead in Construction Standard lookback review in today's Federal Register. "Employers and employees in the construction industry stand to benefit from the results of this lookback review," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "Certain construction jobs still experience high levels of airborne lead and the retention of this Standard is necessary to ensure employees are protected from high lead exposure." OSHA's Directorate of Evaluation and Analysis conducts retrospective reviews of final standards and regulations in accordance with the regulatory review provisions of Section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) and Section 5 of Executive Order 12866 on Regulatory Planning and Review (58 FR 51735, 51739, October 4, 1993). These retrospective reviews are more commonly referred to as "lookback," or Section 610, reviews. The goal of the Lead in Construction Standard is to protect construction employees from lead-related health effects. OSHA estimates that in 2003, 649,000 employees were exposed to lead at levels that may trigger application of the standard. OSHA regularly enforces the lead standard (29 CFR 1926.62) in the construction industry. Between 1993 and 2003, federal OSHA and State-Plan states conducted 4,834 inspections and issued 12,556 citations. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request at (202) 693-7765 or TTY (202) 693-7755. The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1472
__label__wiki	0.715524	0.715524	James E. Wasson CAMBRIDGE CITY- James E. Wasson, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in rural Cambridge City, Indiana on Monday August 11, 2014. A son of the James E. Wasson CAMBRIDGE CITY- James E. Wasson, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in rural Cambridge City, Indiana on Monday August 11, 2014. A son of the Check out this story on pal-item.com: http://pinews.co/1oxSjQ1 Published 3:23 p.m. ET Aug. 14, 2014 CAMBRIDGE CITY- James E. Wasson, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in rural Cambridge City, Indiana on Monday August 11, 2014. A son of the late Charles R. and Virginia Edith (Pittenger) Wasson, Jim was born in New Castle, Indiana on January 20, 1941. Jim was raised in the Dublin community and graduated from Lincoln High School in Cambridge City with the class of 1959. Jim was a mechanic and began his carrier while a youth working on cars alongside his dad at the family business on the north edge of Dublin. Jim was a veteran of the United States Air Force and met the mother of his children while stationed at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan. Following his military service, he raised his family while working for several automotive garages in the Michigan Upper Peninsula and retired in 1998 from the State of Michigan Department of Corrections. In his retirement, Jim divided his time between his "hometowns" in Michigan and Indiana. Jim was an avid reader and in his leisure enjoyed spending his time outdoors, hunting and fishing. He especially loved to spend time with his grandchildren. Jim was president of the Friends of the Cambridge City Public Library and Past Exalted Ruler of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #405 in Marquette, Michigan. Survivors include his 3 children, Terry (Patrick) St. Germain of Negaunee, MI, Michael (Amy) Wasson of Papillion, NE and Francie (Kevin) Martin of Kingsford, MI; 6 grandchildren, Ryan (Krista) and Bradley (Ashlea Foran) St. Germain, Emily and Sydney Wasson, Kaitlin and Kimberly Martin; 1 brother, David (Ruth) Wasson of Indianapolis; several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Joe and his wife Margaret and John Richard Wasson; 1 sister, Eleanor Horseman. The family will receive friends from 2-5 p.m. on Saturday August 16, 2014 at the Marshall & Erlewein Funeral Home- 1993 Cumberland St./ Dublin, IN 47335. In recognition of Jim's love of reading, Memorial Contributions can be made to the Cambridge City Public Library- 600 W. Main Street/ Cambridge City, IN 47327 Online condolences can be made at www.marshallanderleweinfuneralhome.com Read or Share this story: http://pinews.co/1oxSjQ1 Anniversaries: Donald Eales & Addie Eales Anniversaries: Russell T Powell & Rose Powell Retired principal loses leg, stays positive Anniversaries: Mark Mendenhall & Jennifer Mendenhall Dec. 23, 2018, 12:07 a.m. Weddings: Patrick Phenis & Madison Chenowith Anniversaries: Alice Deloney & Jimmie Deloney Sept. 30, 2018, 12:09 a.m.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1475
__label__wiki	0.963722	0.963722	Hear Beyoncé and Donald Glover Sing "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?" in New Lion King Teaser By Molly Schramm \| June 20, 2019 \| 4:38pm Image via Disney Movies News Lion King The soundtrack for the forthcoming Lion King remake has been kept under wraps as the film’s July 19 release looms, but fans can hear a snippet of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” in a new TV trailer for the film. Soundtracked by Beyoncé and Donald Glover, the teaser sees the two harmonizing to the track originally written by Elton John and Tim Rice. As the two sing, shots of beloved characters such as Simba, Nala, Pumbaa, Timon and Mufasa are seen. Over top of the song, viewers can hear Mufasa say to a young Simba, “Look at the stars. The great kings look down on us from those stars. And so will I.” The 30-second clip has stoked the excitement of Beyoncé and Childish Gambino (Glover’s musical moniker) fans alike, and has garnered some more anticipation of the latest installment of Disney’s live-action-style remakes. Other than “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?,” the remake of the 1994 classic is set to include familiar songs such as “Hakuna Matata” and “Circle of Life.” There is currently no information about the artists that will appear on the soundtrack, or when the album will be released, but it can be assumed that Beyoncé and Glover will make some more appearances. Prior to this clip, Disney has recently released a clip of Beyoncé finally voice-acting as Nala, as well as multiple posters featuring all of the characters. Watch the 30-second TV teaser featuring “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” below and watch the full trailer for Disney’s Lion King remake further down. Recently in Movies	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1477
__label__cc	0.722677	0.277323	The Jesuit Post \| Faith that does relevance The Jesuit Post Get updates from The Jesuit Post delivered straight to your inbox About TJP on Patheos TJP Main Site Breaking the Internet; My Heart November 24, 2014 by Paddy Gilger, SJ Breaking the Internet; My Heart November 24, 2014 Paddy Gilger, SJ (c) Paper Magazine I have spent more time than I care to admit – by which I mean any time at all – looking at this photograph of Kim Kardashian and feeling annoyed. It took me a few moments of that time to figure out why, but here it is: I felt annoyed because I felt controlled, manipulated. And I didn’t like it. Here’s the thing, in a photo, any photo, there are at least three “roles” we can take on. There’s the photographer, the one who took the shot, and then there’s the photographed thing or person or whatever. And there’s us, the viewers, the ones who look at it on the page. In every photograph there’s a game being played between these three roles, and I was annoyed at these pictures of Ms. Kardashian because I didn’t like what the role of viewer was doing to me. I didn’t like who I was being told to be. A few days ago, in mid-morning, I celebrated mass with the young women of an all-girls Catholic high school. It was their “spirit week”, which meant that many of them arrived in their school chapel costumed. More practically, it meant that I found myself standing at the altar looking out at a buzzing congregation composed of painted KISS-mimics, crimp-haired Cyndi Laupers, and red-leather clad Michael Jackson imitators. It’s a regular pleasure (whether it’s with a faux-Ace Frehley or not) to say mass, and the heartbeat of this pleasure is that I am allowed by the people of God to look at them from the perspective of God. What I mean is this: during most of the mass the priest speaks about God or to God, in the third person or the second person, but there are moments where the priest speaks as Jesus, in the first person voice of God, too. Which means that while I’m standing at the altar, holding the bread and saying “this is my body”, the chalice and saying “this is my blood”, I get to, for a moment, stand in the place of God and look out at God’s people. It was a week ago that Paper Magazine headlined its effort to “break the internet” with the aforementioned photographs of the ubiquitous Kim Kardashian in various stages of (un)dress. Kim Kardashian herself needs little introduction. That this is true is verified by Amanda Fortini, writer of the few hundred words that accompany the photos (some of them nudes) of Ms. Kardashian. “If you know nothing else about Kim Kardashian,” she writes, “you know that she is very, very famous. Some would say that’s all you need to know.” I do not know whether that is all I need to know, but I do know it’s not all I want to know. In particular there is one other thing I want to know, and it is this: what is looking at this photograph of Ms. Kardashian doing to me? Who are we told to be as we look? We are told to be sexual. Just be possessed by your erotic desires. It’s a gaze of lust we’re asked to take on, a gaze that allows its vision to be narrowed until the only visible thing is Ms. Kardashian’s body and that body is only viewed as the object of a self-centered passion. If we look in this way we become nothing more a libido.[1. Consumerism tells us that “our bodies, like ourselves, are objects, packages, tools, and instruments. Commodification splits sexuality from selfhood. And sexuality… itself becomes a thing for exchange and price, a battleground for competition, a stage for aggression and self-infatuation. …The body is a commodity. The body is a thing.” (John Kavanaugh, SJ Following Christ in a Consumer Society, p13)] We are told we are to be the objects of desire. After all, this is what your body should be. This is the gaze of shame we are asked to assume, the gaze that rebounds on us as we look with the judgment: you have been found wanting. If we look in this way we become people centrally aware of how far short we fall, of what we are not, and we are filled with shame in the recognition. We are told to be powerful. If you had the capacity it would be you, not her, breaking the internet (or able to possess the one who is). This is the prideful and craving gaze, the gaze that sees in Ms. Kardashian only what she possess and we do not. When we look in this way we become Pelagians, constructors of a self-worth build on what we can control. We are told to be callous. All your responses have already been expected and accounted for. This is the anesthetized gaze of the one who knows that the photograph is supposed to be “shocking” and “titillating” (whereas what would really be shocking is if we weren’t beyond being shocked). But when we learn to look callously it just means sinking into an ironic disdain, escaping into a comfortable numbness. There are a thousand ways we can look at Ms. Kardashian’s photos, but in nearly every one we are all but forced to see her as an object. And every time we look at this object it looks back at us and recreates us in its image. Another look is possible. Yesterday morning, just after finishing my prayers, I watched a short film by a Dutch filmmaker, Frans Hofmeester. It is just four minutes long, and more of a timelapse portrait than a film, really. It’s built of hundreds of tiny, repeated clips, all of the same thing: Frans’s daughter, Lotte. In them we see her, as Frans puts it, “grow up before our eyes” from the age of zero to fourteen. Mr. Hofmeester’s framing is steady, a consistent repeat of Lotte’s face, her eyes and shoulders, at times her hands. And, as we watch, she grows. It’s the steadiness, the calmness in the fixed shot that mesmerizes. It’s the consistency of the perspective from which we watch her teeth poke through, and her eyebrows thicken. How we seem to stand before her as she learns to smile and to cry, plays with her hair, begins to talk, leans her chin forward in insistence. And, just as the eye of the camera is on her, so are hers on us. We know it’s her father she is looking at as she sticks out her tongue, pouts, brushes her hair from her face. We know it’s him she is cajoling, speaking to, laughing with, that it’s him who’s asked to see her awards, her braces, her glasses, or the little flower barrettes resting in her hair. We know, but she looks at us. And she asks, in the looking, that we look at her as he does, filling her up with loving admiration and amazement at her existence, pouring into her gratitude for the beauty that is her life. And she tell us in turn: you too. You too, her eyes insist: like me, you too. All of us. We are all of us the recipients of a love that sees in us such beauty. — // — How Should I Die? November 27, 2014 There’s More to Man in Interstellar and The Giver "I am sorry to hear that your sight is on the wane. I have met ..." Sophia Sadek Jesus: A Pitiless Man? "Jesus spends most of Mark being pissed off. By John, he's more mellow." captcrisis "A very nice thought provoking article." oscar britto "Very well done, Eric. Great attitude ." Joseph,S.J. Select a Category About the Blog TJP Book Excerpt TJP Excerpt Uncategorized Weekly Post Select a Month June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 Related posts from The Jesuit Post America interviews TJP editor Michael Rossmann, SJ Rosario Rodriguez on forgiving her attackers Leah Darrow: From America's Next Top Model to...	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1478
__label__wiki	0.881296	0.881296	Hockey All-Star Classic features top Ledgerlanders Mar 29, 2013 at 12:01 AM Mar 29, 2013 at 9:07 PM Saturday’s MSHCA High School All-Star Classic doubleheader at the DCU Center in Worcester will feature a host of South Shore standouts. It always feels good to be recognized for a job well done. For the 92 boys and girls who where invited to make up the rosters for the 2013 Massachusetts State Hockey Coaches Association’s High School All-Star Classic, that feeling couldn’t get any sweeter. The third annual event will be held Saturday at the DCU Center in Worcester. There will be a girls game at 1:45 p.m. and a boys game at 4 p.m. Tickets are $11 in advance and $16 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Shriners Hospital for Children in Boston. Ticket-holders can stick around for the 7 p.m. American Hockey League game between the Worcester Sharks and the St. John’s IceCaps. The All-Star teams, made up of the best talent from the North and South regions of the state, face off against each other in what will be, for many of them, their last run on the ice at the high school level. “It’s a great time for the kids to enjoy it as sort of a last hurrah in their high school uniform,” said Marshfield boys coach Dan Connolly, the MSHCA president. “They get a chance to share it with their friends, families and coaches one more time before the winter closes out.” This is the first year for the girls game. “It’s great to have them involved this year, representing their schools,” said Connolly. “The boys have been doing it all three years, so to get the girls involved, too, is a great way to promote high school hockey.” The South girls squad features 12 Ledgerland players, including high-scoring junior Jane Morrisette of Whitman-Hanson/Pembroke, who was voted into the starting lineup. Other familiar faces include Duxbury’s Hannah Murphy, Hingham’s Jane Freda and Braintree’s Lauren Connelly. “It’s really exciting to be a part of this experience,” said Connelly, who will be joined by Braintree goaltender Rachael Brazil. “And it’s great having a lot of people look up to me being the first girl from Braintree to be involved with this. I feel honored to have be selected.” Although there is a bit more familiarity on the boys side of the classic, it does not diminish the importance of the game to the players, seven of whom hail from the South Shore. “It definitely means a lot to be selected as one of the top players in the state,” said BC High goaltender Peter Cronin of Norwell. “All season there has been tight competition throughout the state, so to have the chance to rep your school is great.” The players selected for the All-Star Classic did enough fund-raising for the Shriners Hospital to allow two burn victims from Honduras to receive treatment there. “I think it was a real eye-opener for the kids,” Connolly said. “It’s not just about hockey, it’s about helping people in need and teaching life lessons.” LEDGERLAND ALL-STARS Ledgerland players who are on the rosters for the South squads at Saturday’s MSHCA High School All-Star Classic doubleheader at the DCU Center in Worcester: Rachel Brazil (Braintree) Lauren Connelly (Braintree) Erin Dwyer (Abp. Williams) Erin Ferrera (Fontbonne) Jane Freda (Hingham) Alexandria Gong (Hingham) Meghan Lennon (Canton) x-Jane Morrisette (W-H/Pembroke) Hannah Murphy (Duxbury) Rachel Myette (Duxbury) McKenna Russell (Fontbonne) Julie Sophis (Notre Dame) Michael Brooks (BC High) x-Mike Carbone (Marshfield) Peter Cronin (BC High) Chris Johnson (Duxbury) Kevin McDougall (Marshfield) Jake Reardon (Abp. Williams) x-Troy Tenaglia (Braintree) x-Indicates starter	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1479
__label__wiki	0.781748	0.781748	The Meaning of Science An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science by Tim Lewens A philosopher of science examines the biggest ethical and moral issues in science today, and explains why they matter for all of us–scientist and layman alike Science has produced explanations for everything from the mechanisms of insect navigation to the formation of black holes and the workings of black markets. But how much can we trust science, and can we actually know the world through it? How does science work and how does it fail? And how can the work of scientists help–or hurt–everyday people? These are not questions that science can answer on its own. This is where philosophy of science comes in. Studying science without philosophy is, to quote Einstein, to be “like somebody who has seen thousands of trees but has never seen a forest.” Cambridge philosopher Tim Lewens shows us the forest. He walks us through the theories of seminal philosophers of science Karl Popper and Thomas Kuhn and considers what science is, how far it can and should reach, and how we can determine the nature of its truths and myths. These philosophical issues have consequences that stretch far beyond the laboratory. For instance: What role should scientists have in policy discussions on environmental issues such as fracking? What are the biases at play in the search for a biological function of the female orgasm? If brain scans can be used to demonstrate that a decision was made several seconds before a person actually makes a conscious choice, what does that tell us about the possibility of free will? By examining science through this philosophical lens, Lewens reveals what physics can teach us about reality, what biology teaches us about human nature, and what cognitive science teaches us about human freedom. A masterful analysis of the biggest scientific and ethical issues of our age, The Meaning of Science forces us to confront the practical, personal, and political purposes of science–and why it matters to all of us. Genre: Nonfiction / Science / Philosophy & Social Aspects On Sale: January 26th 2016 Basic Books Logo "[An] accessible and engaging introductory volume."—Publishers Weekly "The Meaning of Science is a wonderful example of how a so-called introduction can in fact be a brilliant summation of all that matters."—Guardian, Best Books of 2015 "[An] excellent introduction to the philosophy of science.... The Meaning of Science provides not only a compact and accessible survey of the philosophy of science as it used to be, but a glimpse of what it may become."—Literary Review "[The Meaning of Science] raises provocative questions."—Kirkus Reviews "This is a book that you can come back to time and time again as you discover how much remains unanswered in our age of advanced scientific knowledge.... [A] fascinating and thought-provoking book."—Lincolnshire Echo "The Meaning of Science is a comprehensive, accessible introduction to contemporary philosophy of science. Engaging, lively, and insightful, Tim Lewens's book is a gem. Highly recommended."—Martin Curd, co-editor of Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues and of The Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Science	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1480
__label__wiki	0.760592	0.760592	studying_a_cells1920x600.jpg Studying a Cell’s 'Messages in a Bottle' to Unlock Clues to Disease Our Science / Studying a Cell’s 'Messages in a Bottle' to Unlock Clues to Disease by Get Science Staff Cells have a variety of ways of communicating with one another, cytokines and neurotransmitters being two such methods. But a growing body of science now points to another key mechanism for cells to send signals over long distances. All cells produce extracellular vesicles (EVs), tiny membrane-bound particles that carry important genetic information, proteins and lipids that reflect the cell of origin. These EVs float through the bloodstream, urine and saliva, serving as tiny “messages in a bottle.” Initially considered mere cellular “trash bags,” EVs are now seen as more complex because they contain protected genetic material and other signaling molecules from their parent cells. “Inside these EVs are contents that can be very specific to the cell or tissue they came from,” says Theresa Wilson, VP of Precision Medicine within Early Clinical Development. Scientists are hoping this encapsulated material within EVs can be used to diagnose disease. For example, studies have shown that EV concentration is elevated in cancer patients. “We hope EVs can be a source of biomarkers for us to get tissue-level information without having to do an invasive biopsy,” says Wilson. Researchers are also exploring EVs as drug delivery vehicles and for their therapeutic properties. “We're starting to learn significantly more about EVs than we knew even a few years ago. This is a rapidly growing area of science,” she says. Exponential insights and evolving applications Scientists are now exploring ways to use antibodies to detect tissue-specific EVs found in the blood and other bodily fluid samples. This enables researchers to isolate EVs by organ type. “Theoretically, we should be able to pull down EVs for each of the tissue types in the body providing we can identify a tissue specific marker,” says Wilson. Traditionally, in diagnosing diseases like NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis), in which the liver is damaged by inflammation due to a buildup of fats, clinicians would have to conduct an invasive liver biopsy to obtain a tissue sample. However, scientists are now exploring ways to study liver-derived EVs from a simple blood sample that could provide an understanding of the disease. “We normally don’t have insights into what’s going on at the tissue level without taking a biopsy,” says Wilson. “We currently have to make assumptions on what’s going on in the liver from biomarker measurements from blood. But with liver-specific EVs, we have the opportunity to gain insights about what’s going on in the liver in real time.” Similarly, if scientists wanted to study markers for inflammatory bowel disease, for example, they could isolate gut EVs from blood samples. “In the future we hope to be able to understand what’s going on in the gut in a clinical trial without having to take a biopsy,” says Wilson. Scientists are also studying EVs secreted by immune cells to better understand the inflammation status of patients, says Jorge Schettini, a Principal Scientist at Pfizer’s Cambridge, MA research site. Schettini and colleagues are working on a pilot project to show that several key immune cell proteins that act as long-distance regulators are expressed on the surface of EVs.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1481
__label__cc	0.6954	0.3046	Subscribe to our newsletter and save 10% Get scrap happy: shop our scrap packs! Precuts & Bundles Monthly Clubs Home › Aviary - Charm Pack Default Title - $11.99 USD --Select Quantity-- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 Aviary - Charm Pack SKU: RS5001PP Collection: Aviary Designer: Alexia Marcelle Abegg Designer: Melody Miller Designer: Rashida Coleman-Hale Manufacturer: Ruby Star Society Material: Quilting Cotton This product is available for presale only. This collection is expected to ship November 2019. Please note that these are estimated arrival dates from the manufacturer. Sometimes shipments come early/late. If you purchase preorder items on the same order as in-stock items, your order will be held until the preorder items have been relesed. If you would like your in-stock items right away, please make sure to place a separate order for those. Presale fabrics are not eligible for discounts or promotions. 42 5"x5" squares from the Aviary collection by Alexia Marcelle Abegg, Melody Miller and Rashida Coleman-Hale for Ruby Star Society. This Bundle can be found in these other sizes: Aviary - Fat Quarter Bundle --Select-- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 Aviary - Junior Layer Cake --Select-- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 Aviary - Junior Jelly Roll Aviary - Half Yard Bundle Aviary - Full Yard Bundle Longarm Services - PCF Longarm Services - Other Monthly Clubs - Login Stitchalot Sewing Machine Services © 2019 Pink Castle Fabrics	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1486
__label__wiki	0.637084	0.637084	Judy Niemack 'New York Stories' Last Show: Friday 5 th July 2019 New York City is the center of many worlds, the jazz world being one of them, and musicians have always felt the pull of the Big Apple. In 1977, California-born vocalist Judy Niemack’s improvisation teacher, Warne Marsh, told her to move there if she wanted to be a jazz singer, and once she did, she never looked back. Niemack’s experiences in New York shaped her career and life, and her new recording on Sunnyside Records, New York Stories, with her lyrics to songs by Monk, Metheny, Clifford Brown and Don Grolnick, along with classics like 'Round Midnight' and 'In Walked Bud' is a tribute to her years there. Judy will celebrate the creative energy and jazz musicans of New York along with three top-notch London-based instrumentalists, in her concert at the Pheasantry. "She puts over a tune with passion and singular phrasing. She slaloms with streamlined precision through tricky be-bop lines and changes. She twists, turns, scats, leaps and bounds with Olympian grace...displaying admirable control, balance and understatement...Classy." Gene Kalbacher, Hot House “. . . one of the best, and purest jazz singers ever . . . a voice with the clarity of a mountain stream, accuracy of pitch and time that is a wonder to hear, perfect diction and sensitivity to lyrics, and with a disciplined improvisational gift that makes her scat-sung lines music.” L.A. Jazz Scene Singer Judy Niemack is a pure musician, exploring jazz like a virtuoso horn player. Her delivery of lyrics focuses on feeling, while she breaks new ground with originals and a modern approach to standards. Niemack was born in Pasadena, California, where she began to study classical voice at age 17. At 18, she met the great tenor saxophonist Warne Marsh, and became fascinated with improvisation. After pursuing her classical studies at New England Conservatory, she realized that her true path lay in jazz and returned to California to study improvisation with Marsh. When she moved to New York City in 1977, her first major engagement was a week at the Village Vanguard with him. She has recorded 10 CDs as a leader, with such jazz luminaries as Kenny Barron, Fred Hersch, Joe Lovano, Toots Thielemans, Mal Waldron, Cedar Walton and Kenny Werner. About Time on Sony Jazz featured Eddie Gomez and Lee Konitz; In The Sundance , included pianist Bruce Barth and bassist Rufus Reid, and in 2017, Listening to You featured Judy in duo with pianist Dan Tepfer. New Standards, with the Danish Radio Big Band and Jim McNeely will be released in 2018. Niemack has written lyrics for over 100 compositions by Thelonious Monk, Bill Evans, Richie Beirach, Peter Bernstein, Clifford Brown, Lee Konitz, Pat Metheny, Kenny Dorham and Mike Stern, among others. Judy currently divides her time between Berlin and New York City, and as Germany’s first professor of jazz voice, leads the vocal department at the Jazz Institut Berlin while performing in clubs, concerts and festivals around the world. http://www.judyniemack.com/ Band Lineup Judy Niemack (vocals) Rob Barron (piano) Tristan Maillot (drums) Jeremy Brown (bass)	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1488
__label__cc	0.624907	0.375093	Home Explore Our Thinking Meet our client: 15 quest… Meet our client: 15 questions with NuStep October 25, 2016 Article 4 min read CEO Dick Sarns shares how NuStep is making life better for thousands of people with life-limiting disabilities. Founded in 1987, NuStep designs, manufactures, and sells recumbent cross trainers for people with limited movement. CEO Dick Sarns’s original vision for the product was to help those recovering from cardiac surgery –– but today, it’s making life better for thousands of people with a variety of life-limiting disabilities, including his own wife. Dick recently took a few minutes to tell us more about NuStep and how his company has evolved over the years. What inspired you to develop NuStep? Our first company, Sarns, Inc., was founded in 1960 and became a leader in quality heart lung systems. After open heart surgery, patients were put on an exercise program to be completed in the hospital or at a rehabilitation center — but there were a lot of complaints about the equipment. That’s how I got the idea for NuStep, Inc. How did you turn the idea into a successful business? We learned along the way. Our first product was a seated stationary bike, but we found that the rotary motion was a challenge for many patients. This inspired the concept for the NuStep Stepper by Steve Sarns for a total body workout machine featuring a swivel seat, variable resistance, and size adjustability. We've heard this is a family business. Can you tell us about the roles members of your family play? Steve is vice president of sales and marketing, and our other son, David, is a shareholder in the business. My wife, Norma, is the secretary and also on the board of directors. How important is culture to your company? Very important. Taking care of our team members is a priority. We offer excellent benefits. We also incorporated a wellness center into our building where we offer a daily in-house exercise program for team members, complete with a physical trainer. We have an experienced group of people working together to move the company forward — some have been here for 25 years. Is it true that your products are designed, manufactured, assembled, and shipped right from your headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan? Absolutely. We’re proud of our ability to manufacture our own equipment. In addition to keeping us competitive on cost and quality, we have the ability to manufacture with a very short lead time. How many NuSteps have you sold? We’ve sold nearly 90,000 units across 20 countries. Aside from the United States, our No. 1 selling country is Japan — which has a large number of older people and a culture that’s focused on taking care of the elderly. Are your products developed for professional or home use? NuStep was originally developed for professional use, but there became a demand for home use. Today, about 30 percent of our products are sold directly to individuals. Are NuStep products designed for a specific population? Our equipment is designed for able-bodied people and those with limited movement. This includes those who’ve suffered from a stroke, muscular deficiencies, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, obesity…the list goes on. How do your machines differ from others on the market? Quality. We have a strong focus on ergonomics and durable design for long-term use. All of our products are tested by ergonomists to ensure our products are safe, easy to use, and allow for proper body movement. Does NuStep have any new products coming out? Yes, a new innovative product that’s already in beta testing has many added features, including measurements that have never before been available. We’ve read several stories about how NuStep products have transformed people’s lives. What’s your favorite success story? My wife’s. About 10 years after we launched NuStep, my wife was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. There’s no cure or treatment, but we know that NuStep has helped her. My wife can no longer walk and has difficulty moving her hands, but she’s still able to use NuStep daily. It allows her to sit in a safe, comfortable position and independently move her arms and legs at a modest pace. That muscle movement is so important to her health and we often wonder where she’d be today if she hadn’t been using it for so many years. Can you tell me about NuStep’s initiative to help end Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease that affects far too many people, including several of our friends. It’s an epidemic — one we’re doing our best to end. One way we do this is through our program NuStepping to End Alzheimer’s. One day each year, nearly 2,000 people participate in an Alzheimer’s fundraising and awareness event using NuStep recumbent cross trainers. What accomplishment are you most proud of? I’m proud of the NuStep team we’ve developed. We have an incredible group of people working to make a contribution to improve health and wellness. What do you love most about your job? Helping to develop products that are making a difference in many lives — including my wife’s. Where do you see NuStep in 10 years? I see NuStep becoming a much larger company. We have an aging population and expect that people will be living longer with disabilities — we know we can help improve their health and wellness. Taking action from your data Healthcare Medical Device Frazier Healthcare Partners capitalizes on the transforming healthcare investment market Duane J. Fitch Video December 4, 2018 4 min watch Seven techniques to reduce costs and improve profitability Jason Winters Article January 8, 2019 2 min read Top tactics to measure financial performance and understand your business health	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1489
__label__cc	0.724436	0.275564	Coaching Appointments Intro Download Important Dates on the NCAA Recruiting Calendar NCAA member schools have adopted rules to create an equitable recruiting environment that promotes student-athlete well-being. The rules define, among other things, when recruiting may occur and the conditions under which recruiting may be conducted. Recruiting rules seek, as much as possible, to control intrusions into the lives of student-athletes. Why Use The NCAA Recruiting Calendar There are a number of important dates with regard to NCAA recruiting rules. In order to make these rules more accessible and understandable by all those concerned, including student athletes and their parents, the NCAA Recruiting Calendar to designate what specific action can occur at what period in a recruit’s high school career. It is important to know these calendars exist and how to access them, as they will tell you what a coach is allowed to do at what period of time. Evaluation Period: During an evaluation period a college coach may watch college-bound student-athletes compete, visit their high schools, and write or telephone student-athletes or their parents. However, a college coach may not have face-to-face contact with college-bound student-athletes or their parents off the college’s campus during an evaluation period. Contact Period: During a contact period a college coach may have face-to-face contact with college-bound student-athletes or their parents, watch student-athletes compete and visit their high schools, and write or telephone student-athletes or their parents. Quiet Period: A period of time when it is permissible for college coaches to make in-person contacts but only on the institution campus. No in-person, off-campus contacts or evaluations may be made during a quiet period. Dead Period: During a dead period a college coach may not have face-to-face contact with college-bound student-athletes or their parents, and may not watch student-athletes compete or visit their high schools. Coaches may write and telephone student-athletes or their parents during a dead period. Things to Know About the NCAA Recruiting Guidelines The NCAA defines recruiting as “any solicitation of prospective student-athletes or their parents by an institutional staff member or by a representative of the institution’s athletics interests for the purpose of securing a prospective student-athlete’s enrollment and ultimate participation in the institution’s intercollegiate athletics program.” Why We Have NCAA Recruiting Guidelines To that end, NCAA member schools have adopted rules to create an equitable recruiting environment that promotes student-athlete well-being. These rules create NCAA recruiting guidelines that define who may be involved in the recruiting process, when recruiting may occur and the conditions under which recruiting may be conducted. NCAA recruiting guidelines seek, as much as possible, to limit the intrusions by college coaches into the lives of student-athletes by clarifying when activity can and cannot occur and how it must be done. How Parents & Athletes Abide by NCAA Recruiting Guidelines Athletes and parents tend to become concerned with making sure they follow the NCAA recruiting guidelines and the rules associated with recruiting. First of all, it is not incumbent upon the athlete to know all of the rules and NCAA recruiting guidelines. Almost every NCAA recruiting guideline and rule deals with the actions of the coach or member institution. You have to remember that the NCAA came up with these important recruiting guidelines and rules to protect the athlete and their parents. They are in place to control the actions of the coach and school, not the athlete and their parents. Coaches are required to know the applicable NCAA guidelines and rules and should stop any activity that may violate them. Secondly, the NCAA Division I recruiting manual is nearly 500 pages thick. Not even NCAA coaches know all of these guidelines and rules. But just know that you can always go to the NCAA website or manual if you have any questions, or you can always call one of the coaches at Play Up Athletics. We may not know all the rules either, but at least we can tell you if you even need to bother worrying about a certain situation or activity. How Coaches Approach the NCAA Recruiting Guidelines Most of the NCAA recruiting guidelines and rules deal with the contact of the athletes by a coach and how and when that can be done. If you want more information on how and when an athlete can be contacted, visit the NCAA recruiting calendar. If you want more general information on recruiting the NCAA produces a manual called the Guide for College Bound Student Athletes if you want to learn more. Play Up Athletics Can Break Down Recruiting Rules For You Play Up Athletics specializes in getting student athletes ready to be recruited and then walking them through the process from start to finish, including making sure they are aware of applicable rules and deadlines. Our program called The Athletic Edge, addresses the important NCAA recruiting rules that apply to the athlete, but more than that, we teach you the most efficient, effective and affordable way to get recruited. A small investment can reap tens of thousands of dollars in savings and produce an unforgettable college experience. To learn more about The Athletic Edge and how we can help you, contact us. If you have any specific questions about NCAA recruiting guidelines just e-mail or give us a call. Chuck Lovitt is the president and founder of Play Up Athletics, helping student-athletes prepare for college and college recruitment. Powered by PLAY UP ATHLETICS	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1490
__label__wiki	0.555372	0.555372	AbSciCon: The Cab Ride When I settled into a cab at Washington's Union Station last night, the driver amiably asked why I'm visiting the capital. "I'm here for an astrobiology conference," I said. "Astrology?" he pronounced in a thick Cambodian accent. "No, as-tro-biology. It's the search for life in the universe." "Ah," he replied, "that's my area of study! I wrote a book on the solar system." John, it turns out, is a radio broadcaster for Voice of America by day, a cab driver by night, and has a masters in philosophy, which he taught before immigrating to the United States 30 years ago—a week before Communist forces captured Phnom Penh. He began studying astronomy, he told me, because he firmly believed the Earth was flat and at the center of the universe, and he wanted to know if it was true. "It's not!" he said. "It's not true at all!" Stay tuned for posts from the 4th annual Astrobiology Science Conference, hosted by NASA. And remember to pay close attention to life here on Earth, because it can be pretty interesting, too. —J.Bogo The Inspiration for Mind-Control Conspiracy Theories Faces Its Demise This Is the World’s Smallest Functional V-12 Engine Scientists Create Synthetic Yeast Chromosome (And Unlock the Future of Beer) Is Fracking Safe? The Top 10 Controversial Claims About Natural Gas Drilling 10 of the Maddest Scientists Who Ever Lived	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1494
__label__wiki	0.762567	0.762567	Hawaii a Key Market from Oakland International Airport -- Over 800 Daily Seats Departing to Hawaii from OAK this Summer -- Oakland, Calif. (March 28, 2011 – Alaska Airlines launched service to Lihue, on the island of Kauai, from Oakland International Airport (OAK) today, making it the fourth nonstop Hawaiian Island destination from OAK. The four weekly flights to Lihue complement Alaska Airlines existing service to Kahului, Maui, and Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, from OAK. Hawaiian Airlines flies daily nonstop service from OAK to Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. Due to the tremendous success of existing Hawaiian Island service, Alaska Airlines will expand to daily service to Kahului, on June 5. Currently, this flight is offered four times a week from Oakland. Alaska’s Kona flight operates three times per week. Hawaiian Airlines, in addition to its daily nonstop service to Honolulu, will begin daily nonstop flights between OAK and Maui on June 17 for the peak summer season. For both of these flights, Hawaiian operates Boeing 767-300 wide-body, twin-aisle aircraft, which can seat up to 264 passengers. OAK airlines’ nonstop service to the Hawaiian Islands operates as follows: “Add it all up, there will be 836 seats leaving to the Hawaiian Islands from Oakland International each morning this summer,” said Deborah Ale Flint, Director of Aviation for the Port of Oakland, which owns and operates OAK. “Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are responding to Bay Area residents’ pent-up demand for a vacation rather than a staycation. There’s no better way to begin a Hawaiian vacation than from Oakland, where travelers will enjoy easy airport access, excellent customer service and on-time flights,” she added. The number of airlines seats to Hawaii has rebounded from the recession, and is more than double that from the 264 daily seats offered in summer 2008. OAK has emerged as a major mainland gateway to the Hawaiian Islands, joining a select group of U.S. airports with flights to the four major islands. About Alaska Airlines:Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), together serve more than 90 cities through an expansive network in Alaska, the Lower 48, Hawaii, Canada and Mexico. Alaska Airlines ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Traditional Network Carriers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008, 2009 and 2010 North America Airline Satisfaction Studies SM. For reservations, visit www.alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Newsroom at www.alaskaair.com/newsroom. About Hawaiian Airlines: Hawaiian Airlines is the top domestic airline serving Hawaii. Now in its 82nd year of continuous service in Hawaii, Hawaiian is the largest provider of passenger air service to Hawaii from the state’s primary visitor markets on the U.S. mainland. Hawaiian offers nonstop service to Hawaii from more U.S. gateway cities (10) than any other airline, as well as service to South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Australia, American Samoa, and Tahiti. Hawaiian also provides approximately 150 daily jet flights between the Hawaiian Islands. Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com. About the Port of Oakland/Oakland International Airport: The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport and 20 miles of waterfront. The Oakland seaport is the fifth busiest container port in the U.S.; Oakland International Airport is the second largest San Francisco Bay Area airport and fourth largest airport in California, offering over 130 daily flights; and the Port’s real estate includes commercial developments such as Jack London Square and hundreds of acres of public parks and conservation areas. The Port of Oakland was established in 1927 and is an independent department of the City of Oakland. Visit portofoakland.com and oaklandairport.com. Facebook / Oakland International Airport. Oakland International Airport Rosemary Barnes rbarnes@portoakland.com	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1495
__label__cc	0.749832	0.250168	Port of Oakland issues statement on West Coast labor impasse Press Releases, Seaport The Port of Oakland issued the following statement this evening regarding the West Coast waterfront labor impasse: Oakland, CA – Feb. 4, 2015 – “The West Coast waterfront labor impasse needs to be settled….quickly. Importers and exporters are suffering significant cargo delays. Central Valley farmers can’t ship their produce. Small business owners can’t get goods to put on the shelf. Harbor truckers can’t do their jobs. Everyone is suffering. If the situation, worsens….if West Coast ports shut down, the U.S. economy and the global supply chain will be jeopardized. In the San Francisco Bay Area, 73,000 jobs that depend on the Port of Oakland will be at risk. The impasse is good for no one. It is time to reach agreement on a new contract and put the disruptions and delays behind us.” About the Port of Oakland The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport and Oakland International Airport. The Port's jurisdiction includes 20 miles of waterfront from the Bay Bridge through Oakland International Airport. The Oakland seaport is the fifth busiest container port in the U.S.; Oakland International Airport is the second largest San Francisco Bay Area airport offering over 300 daily passenger and cargo flights; and the Port’s real estate includes commercial developments such as Jack London Square and hundreds of acres of public parks and conservation areas. Together, through Port operations and those of its tenants and users, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. The Port of Oakland was established in 1927 and is an independent department of the City of Oakland. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com. Roberto Bernardo, rbernardo@portoakland.com Marilyn Sandifur Port Spokesperson msandifur@portoakland.com	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1496
__label__wiki	0.908068	0.908068	New $30 million assisted-living development planned for Waco WacoTribe.com Apr 4, 2016 By MIKE COPELAND Land clearing has begun for a $30 million senior living development called The Delaney at Lake Waco to be built on Fish Pond Road near Ridgewood Country Club, the Texas Farm Bureau corporate headquarters and the eastern entrance to the Twin Bridges. The four-story, 167-unit complex will offer upscale amenities such as a theater, library, exercise and wellness rooms, a large dining room and extensive landscaping that will create courtyards for the independent, assisted-living and memory communities that Des Moines, Iowa-based Life Care Services will include in The Delaney. LCS is developing similar villages in the Texas communities of Katy, League City and Georgetown, said Lee Lyles, vice president of new project development. “We did a very intensive market survey of the whole state of Texas and identified areas with growing economies, good population growth and income-qualified demand for what we have to offer,” Lyles said. “Waco made that list, and since 2014 we’ve been looking for the ideal site. We did not necessarily plan to build near the lake, but we wanted to be in a neighborhood with our requisite age and income demographics. The lake will give us a unique setting.” Lyles said Waco has become home to “some really good senior housing projects, but nothing with state-of-the-art programs and amenities,” he said. “I believe people will find The Delaney very nice. We view it as an upper mid-market product, and we believe it is the nicest product to be found in Waco.” He said the residential areas include 80 independent- living units, 55 assisted-living areas and 32 memory care assisted-living units. LCS, which has become the third-largest builder of assisted-living centers in the United States with a presence in 40 states, has not yet established lease rates. “But of course they will have to be competitive with the existing marketplace,” Lyles said. The company is confident it can fill the complex or it could not have convinced investors and other financing sources to pledge $40 million toward its development, including the purchase of about 13 acres near Lake Waco, he said. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has determined that about 8 acres lie within an area far enough above the lake to accommodate housing. “We are very much resident-driven, resident-focused, and we intend to design programs that will benefit all who live here,” Lyles said. “We have a lot of experience, and we’re excited about being in Waco. We’ve been working here two years, getting to know the community, and we will make the most of this opportunity.” White Commercial Construction in Austin will serve as general contractor, while PRDG Architectural Solutions of Dallas designed the community. Lyles said the company hopes to complete work on the property by August 2017 and already has begun marketing it. Construction is about to begin on this facility just as other assisted-living facilities are beginning to welcome residents. On Saturday, grand-opening ceremonies were held for the new Heartis Waco Assisted Living & Memory Care Community on Speegleville Road, a $20 million complex near the Villages at Twin Rivers community and the Twin Rivers Golf Club, said Brian Garcia, business office manager. He said the community features 61 assisted-living residences and 34 memory care units, with the units ranging in size from 400 to 680 square feet and priced between $3,000 and nearly $5,000 a month. Some units in the memory area have companion suites, with two bedrooms connected by a bathroom. Garcia said Portland, Oregon-based Frontier Management, which is managing the complex, has signed leases on about 30 living areas. A state inspection of the community is scheduled next week, after which residents will begin moving in during the next four to six weeks. The $20 million price tag covered the cost of acquiring 4.9 acres of land, construction, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and the development of common and landscaped areas and courtyards. Amenities include a salon and spa with a therapeutic tub; a large dining room and a private dining room; an arts and crafts room; media room; daily specialized activities; chef-prepared meals; licensed nursing services; a 24-hour emergency call system; and personal transportation. Elsewhere, Living Springs Village opened in mid-January at 8601 Old McGregor Road to serve patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Shane Davis, executive director, said seven residents now live in a 16-unit cottage, one of three scheduled to be built on the grounds. “We’re getting a lot of telephone inquiries and a lot of walk-in traffic,” Davis said by phone Monday. Dr. David Myers, who works at the Hillcrest Clinic-Midway and is one of the owners of Living Springs Village, said he became interested in the care of those suffering from dementia in part because of the work of his father, Dennis Myers, who teaches gerontology and social work at Baylor University. Partners in the venture, he said, wanted to provide an environment where a small number of patients would receive personalized care. “My dad has a special heart for the older population, and he knows how heartbreaking Alzheimer’s and other dementias can be for caregivers,” Myers said. Like many communities nationwide, Waco is seeing a significant increase in the number of people reaching ages 65 and older as life expectancy increases and baby boomers mature. “The need for facilities such as these is growing, not just in Waco but nationally,” said Chris Evilia, executive director of the local Metropolitan Planning Organization. “I’ve heard anecdotally that Waco is attracting interest from retirees due to its favorable climate, amenities and health care services geared to serve the aging.” A Dallas-based company, Emerald Waco Investments, is developing 30 acres adjacent to Central Texas Marketplace, where it has cleared land for a “village” that includes units offering assisted living, independent living and skilled nursing care on 18 acres, and retail and office space on the balance. That project has been placed in limbo by a lawsuit that Central Texas Marketplace Apartment Associates, owners of The Residence at 5210 Bagby Ave., have filed against Emerald seeking unspecified damages. Plaintiffs allege that Emerald crews destroyed valuable woodlands and discharged soil and pollutants into Cottonwood Creek during site clearing. Senior Living Architecture Services <Previous Post Avanti Senior Living to Break Ground. Next Post> © 2019 by PRDG, LLC. All Rights Reserved.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1498
__label__wiki	0.6489	0.6489	Lawrence Livermore’s Laser Facility Aims for Pinpoint Accuracy in Parts National research lab turns to Protolabs to cut production costs and development time How large is the National Ignition Facility? Think sports-stadium size—three football fields could fit inside, and it’s 10 stories high. Image: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Call it large meets small. Scientists and engineers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory recently turned to Protolabs’ digital manufacturing services to rapidly produce highly precise parts and components for the lab’s National Ignition Facility (NIF), which houses the largest laser facility in the world. The NIF is the “large” in this story. How big? Think sports-stadium size—three football fields could fit inside. And, it’s 10 stories high. The “small” of the story is the target that is used for aiming NIF’s laser—it is about the size of a pencil eraser. NIF researchers wanted to reduce the time and cost of machining new tools and custom components for that laser target, and at the same time, needed to manufacture extremely tiny parts for the target piece. These custom parts required small feature sizes, challenging geometries, and the precision accuracy required for aiming a laser beam. Those NIF researchers would discover that Protolabs could meet all of these needs. Basic Science and Fusion Research For more than 60 years, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), in Livermore, California near San Francisco, has provided basic science, engineering, and fusion energy research and development for the National Nuclear Security Administration, which, as part of the U.S. Department of Energy, funds LLNL. With more than 6,300 employees, including 2,700 scientists and engineers, it is part of the national laboratory system. A subset of Lawrence Livermore, the NIF’s laser facility is considered the world’s most precise and reproducible laser and the largest optical instrument. The giant laser has nearly 40,000 optics that precisely guide, reflect, amplify, and focus 192 laser beams onto a fusion target that, as mentioned, is roughly the size of a pencil eraser. Reduce the time and cost of machining new tools and custom components for Lawrence Livermore’s laser target, which is part of the lab’s giant laser facility, the largest structure of its kind in the world. Manufacture tiny parts with small features and the precision accuracy required for aiming a laser beam. Produce custom, precision components, and fixtures with challenging dimensions and features Manufacture parts quickly and cost effectively. Engineers and designers from Lawrence Livermore saved significant cost and turnaround time by deploying Protolabs’ industrial-grade 3D printing (additive manufacturing): Traditional machine shop machining: $5,000 per part/5-week turnaround 3D Printing at Protolabs: less than $100 per part/less than 1-week turnaround. The NIF’s laser provides the scientific community—researchers from the Department of Energy, international fusion energy researchers, scientists from colleges and universities, and others—with the capability for conducting experiments and studying materials at extreme pressures, temperatures, and densities. These conditions have never been created in a laboratory environment, and exist naturally only during thermonuclear burn, in supernovas, and in the fusion reactions that power the stars. Not to get too cosmic about it, but some of the research and experiments conducted by the NIF are aimed at unlocking clues to the mystery of how stars are created. This tiny, ABS-like plastic 3D-printed part, about the size of a pencil eraser, is among the thousands of 3D-printed and machined custom parts, components, and tooling that Protolabs has made since 2011 for the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Development Challenge: Laser-sharp precision, small-feature size Because of its uncommon technology, NIF often requires new tools for its laser target fabrication, tooling, and components. “What’s challenging about our application is that it requires extremely high accuracy and small feature size,” said Jeremy Kroll, an NIF target engineer. “From as small as a cell phone battery to smaller than a pencil eraser, and [at the same time] needing the precision accuracy of handling a laser beam.” Indeed, each target must be custom made for each experiment that researchers conduct, requiring precision tooling, according to Roger Von Rotz, NIF production engineer. In the past, at times, tools did not exist to handle the new machinery of the technology, “so we have developed new tools and manufacturing to build and maintain our program and technologies.” Over time, Von Rotz said, “we built our own. Then we sent them out for custom machining, but we found each piece took weeks and even months to fabricate, and cost the program thousands of dollars apiece.” Manufacturing Solutions: 3D Printing and Machining Eventually, Von Rotz said, “we became interested in additive manufacturing [industrial-grade 3D printing] and experimented with it, and, as the industry expanded so did our print parts with much higher resolution and precision tooling than what was available previously. The savings in both cost and time also became a factor.” As Von Rotz explained, “We went searching for additive manufacturing and found Protolabs.” As a manufacturing supplier, Protolabs could, Von Rotz explained, produce tiny parts, components, and related fixtures with the required challenging dimensions, features, and precision, plus, manufacture and deliver those parts quickly and cost-effectively. The use of additive manufacturing has enabled us to save significant costs and turnaround time for tooling and target components,” said Von Rotz. “In addition, we’ve utilized certain components/processes that would not have been possible without the versatility this technology provides.” NIF has used Protolabs’ 3D printing processes of stereolithography (SL) and direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) to make plastic and metal custom parts respectively. NIF also has used, in the past, Protolabs’ CNC machining services. In fact, since 2011, NIF has developed and produced thousands of parts at Protolabs. Beyond the manufacturing itself, Von Rotz also noted that Protolabs’ automated design analysis and on-going customer service staff assistance have been helpful. Engineers from the National Ignition Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory saved cost and turnaround time by moving from a machined vacuum chuck design, left, to a design that deployed Protolabs’ industrial-grade 3D printing (additive manufacturing), right. Image: National Ignition Facility, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Outcomes: Cost and Time Savings, Toolmaking Advances NIF engineers and designers point to several examples of use cases, many involving cost savings, time savings, and key toolmaking advances. Here are just two of a number of successful outcomes: Cost, time savings on development of vacuum chuck designs. In one recent case, NIF engineers saved significant cost and turnaround time by deploying Protolabs’ industrial-grade 3D printing process in the development of vacuum chuck designs. NIF: “In the past, these required high-precision machining operations to match components being held… [Additive manufacturing] enables our work to proceed in record time.” According to the NIF, the savings was dramatic: Traditional machine shop machining: at $5,000 per part/5-week turnaround Protolabs additive manufacturing: at less than $100 per part/less than 1-week turnaround Target-assembly fixturing. In another case, designers were able to move from individual components assembled with many setups to single complex fixtures, which accelerated assembly, lowered cost, and provided alternate formats for the target’s design. Since 2011, Lawrence Livermore has used Protolabs to manufacture thousands of custom parts, components, and tooling, making Protolabs an important contractor in the lab’s supply chain. Going forward, NIF sources expect Protolabs to continue to play a key supplier role to support the facility’s on-going mission of advancing discovery science and fusion energy research.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1503
__label__cc	0.555379	0.444621	Abracadebra The Butterfly Collection Three Dimensional Work About Prue Prue MacDougall Artist Print Maker New Zealand born artist, Prue MacDougall studied printmaking at the Elam School of Fine Art, University of Auckland. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with distinction in 1985 and was awarded the Auckland University Annual Prize of Excellence in Fine Arts in the same year. Since then Prue has travelled extensively, developing her art practice through close examination of master works in galleries and museums in Europe, the UK and the USA and participating in postgraduate study at international art schools. Closer to home, Prudence has exhibited in many galleries around New Zealand and is represented in many collections in New Zealand and overseas. Prue’s art practice has always operated like a metaphorical stage in which she contrives whimsical tableau to reflect her personal life experiences and the intriguing dynamics of human relationships. Her compositions echo the haunting imagery of Goya, Rego and, to a lesser extent, Piranesi. Prue acknowledges being inspired by these master printmakers, but it is their application of chiaroscuro and theatrical drama as a means to evoke emotional response that primarily interests her. © Copyright 2019 by Prue MacDougall \| Terms Of Use	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1504
__label__wiki	0.893961	0.893961	Faith Evans Marries Stevie J in Las Vegas Faith Evans and Stevie J are ready to say “I do.” The couple has applied for a marriage license in Las Vegas, according to TMZ. The singer and producer filed for the license in... Read More Watch Faith Evans, Fantasia, & Bilal’s ‘Soul Cypher’ at Soul Train Awards Toni Braxton wasn’t the only star shining at the 2017 Soul Train Awards. While Braxton was honored with a tribute from Jessie J, Ro James, and Luke James, Erykah Badu hosted a “Soul Cypher”... Read More 8.3.2017 Music Videos Video: Faith Evans & The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Jadakiss – ‘NYC’ After partying on the West Coast with Snoop Dogg, Faith Evans takes over the Big Apple with Jadakiss in the video for “NYC,” the latest single off her Notorious B.I.G. joint project, The King... Read More Video: Faith Evans feat. Snoop Dogg – ‘When We Party’ Ain’t no party like a West Coast party. Celebrating the release of The King & I — her duets project with The Notorious B.I.G. — Faith Evans throws a special bash in the video... Read More Stream Faith Evans & Notorious B.I.G.’s Duets Album ‘The King & I’ It was all a dream. Now, just three days before the late Notorious B.I.G.’s birthday, that dream is being realized as Faith Evans releases her long-awaited Biggie duets project, The King & I. Packed... Read More New Music: Faith Evans & The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Sheek Louch & Styles P – ‘Take Me There’ Before dropping her Notorious B.I.G. duets album The King & I this month, Faith Evans unleashes “Take Me There,” a collaboration with The Lox’s Sheek Louch and Styles P. The nostalgia-filled lyric video, premiering... Read More Chris Brown, Migos, & Biggie Tribute Headline Hot 97’s Summer Jam Hot 97 is planning a really “B.I.G.” Summer Jam. The legendary New York radio station has announced the lineup for this year’s festival. After wrapping his “Party Tour” next month, Chris Brown is set... Read More Video: Faith Evans & The Notorious B.I.G. – ‘Legacy’ Faith Evans takes a trip down memory lane in the video for “Legacy” off her forthcoming Notorious B.I.G. joint project, The King & I. Directed by Rock Davis and Jay Rodriguez, “Legacy” finds Faith... Read More New Music: Faith Evans & Notorious B.I.G. – ‘Ten Wife Commandments’ As she gears up for her Notorious B.I.G. duets album The King & I, Faith Evans unleashes her new single, “Ten Wife Commandments,” a flip of her late husband’s classic drug dealer’s anthem, “Ten... Read More Exclusive: Faith Evans Opens Up About Lil’ Kim Collaboration on ‘The King & I’ Love is at the heart of The King & I, Faith Evans’ duets album with her late husband, The Notorious B.I.G. As such, love’s complications are also explored with in-depth honesty throughout the project,... Read More 3.9.2017 Album CoversNews Faith Evans Unveils Cover for Notorious B.I.G. Duets Album ‘The King & I’ As the music world celebrates The Notorious B.I.G. on the 20th anniversary of his passing, Faith Evans reveals the cover for her long-awaited Biggie duets album, The King & I. Dressed in all black,... Read More Diddy to Debut Bad Boy Documentary at Tribeca Film Festival Last year, Diddy marked the 20th anniversary of Bad Boy with a tour. This year, he celebrates the label’s legacy yet again with his Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop: The Bad Boy Story documentary. The... Read More	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1505
__label__wiki	0.537146	0.537146	Shared parental leave survey: Only 1% of fathers take opportunity to split time off Posted by Big Rat on Campus on Apr 9, 2016 in Rat News \| Subscribe Only 1 per cent of fathers have taken up the opportunity to share parental leave a year after the option was introduced, according to a survey of employers and parents. According to research by My Family Care – which advises businesses on being family-friendly – and the Women’s Business Council, 55 per cent of women said they would not want to share their maternity leave. The survey of more than 1,000 parents and 200 businesses found that taking up shared parental leave (SPL) was dependent on a person’s individual circumstances, particularly on their financial situation and the paternity pay on offer from their employer. A decision to share leave would be dependent on their finances and their employer’s enhancement of SPL, according to 80 per cent of both men and women surveyed. Shared parental leave was introduced by the previous coalition government and came into force on 4 April, 2015. The policy allows new parents to split up to 52 weeks of shared parental leave between them as well as up to 39 weeks of statutory shared parental pay. The research found that although take-up had been low, almost two thirds (63 per cent) of men who already have young children, and are considering having more, saying it was likely they would choose to take SPL. Of the 200 employers asked, the majority also said that they enhanced both maternity (77 per cent) and paternity (65 per cent) pay and had a desire to be consistent with their culture of fairness and equality, and to increase retention and engagement of both men and women. Father-of-three and My Family Care co-founder Ben Black said: “It is still very early days for Shared Parental Leave. “While take-up is low, its introduction was a fantastic step forward when it comes to equality in the workplace; a policy that proves that women are no longer expected to be the main childcare provider, while men are no longer expected to be the main breadwinner. “The key thing for businesses is to help their employees combine work and family, by providing them with choices and enabling them to carry on with their careers while having a family.” A spokesman for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “Shared parental leave is provided to help mothers who want to return to work early share responsibility for the care of her child with the father or partner. There are many factors that affect a couple’s decision on how childcare should be managed and by whom. “When the policy was introduced, the Government estimated that around 285,000 couples would be eligible for SPL and that the take-up would be between 2 per cent and 8 per cent. Take-up is likely to be higher in organisations that offer pay above the statutory minimum. We will evaluate the policy by 2018 and this will enable us to estimate the actual take-up of shared parental leave.” Shared parental leave Rats! I’ve got nowhere to leave my rodent these holidays ‘Inadequate’ mental health services leave abused children ‘languishing without support’, NSPCC warns 2014 Artist Survey: Hookworms	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1506
__label__wiki	0.867552	0.867552	Vietnam, EU sign landmark free trade deal Khanh Vu, Phuong Nguyen Hanoi (Reuters) - The European Union signed a landmark free trade deal with Vietnam on Sunday, the first of its kind with a developing country in Asia, paving the way for tariff reductions on 99% of goods between the trading bloc and Southeast Asian country. European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstrom, Romania's Business, Trade and Enterpreneurship Minister Stefan Radu Oprea and Vietnam's Industry and Trade Minister Tran Tuan Anh exchange documents while attending the signing ceremony of EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement at the Government Office in Hanoi, Vietnam June 30, 2019. REUTERS/Kham It still needs the approval of the European Parliament, which is not a given as some lawmakers are concerned about Vietnam’s human rights record. The European Union has described the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) as “the most ambitious free trade deal ever concluded with a developing country”. The two sides announced the deal in a statement. It was signed in Hanoi between European Union Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom and Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh, three-and-a-half years after negotiations ended in December 2015. It will eliminate 99% of tariffs, although some will be cut over a 10-year period and other goods, notably agricultural products, will be limited by quotas. Vietnam, which has one of the region’s fastest-growing economies, backed by robust exports and foreign investment, has already signed about a dozen free trade pacts, including an 11-country deal that will slash tariffs across much of the Asia-Pacific, known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The agreement with the EU is also expected to open up public procurement and services markets, such as for the postal, banking and maritime sectors. The EU is Vietnam’s second-largest export market after the United States, with main exports including garment and footwear products. In 2018, Vietnam exported $42.5 billion worth of goods and services to the EU, while the value of imports from the region reached $13.8 billion, official data shows. The Vietnamese government said on Sunday that EVFTA would boost EU exports to Vietnam by 15.28% and those from Vietnam to the EU by 20.0% by 2020. The agreement will boost Vietnam’s gross domestic product by 2.18%-3.25% annually by 2023 and by 4.57%-5.30% annually between 2024-2028, the government said. On Friday, the EU and South American bloc Mercosur agreed a free-trade treaty following two decades of talks. In Asia, the EU has trade agreements with South Korea, Japan and Singapore, and it has launched negotiations with Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. The EU-Singapore deal is set to come into force later this year. Reporting by Khanh Vu and Phuong Nguyen; Additional reporting by Kham Nguyen and Thinh Nguyen; Editing by James Pearson	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1509
__label__wiki	0.885717	0.885717	The Rheinmetall Group uses cookies saved to your device in order to optimise and continuously improve its websites, as well as for statistical purposes . For further information please refer to our imprint and our privacy policy . You can close this banner and object to the use of cookies by clicking on the "X". Please note that a single cookie still needs to be placed on your device to save your selection. If you would like to ban cookies in general, you must do this in your browser settings. OK, understood! I hereby agree to the use of cookies. About Rheinmetall Career special Development Program Defence Career special Cybersecurity Career in Australia Career in the Netherlands Career special LAND 400 Apprenticeship and dual study programmes Your start at Rheinmetall Work and prospects People at Rheinmetall Rheinmetall and BAE Systems launch UK based military vehicle Joint Venture - Rheinmetall and BAE Systems Land Rheinmetall and BAE Systems have today launched a new, independent UK-based joint venture for military vehicle design, manufacture and support – known as Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL). Headquartered in Telford in the West Midlands, the joint venture will sustain around 450 jobs across the UK and is well positioned for future growth. RBSL intends to play a major role in manufacturing the Boxer 8x8 for the British Army’s Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) programme and other strategic combat vehicle programmes, while also providing support to the British Army’s in-service bridging and armoured vehicle fleets. Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt said: “This announcement is a clear vote of confidence in the UK’s defence industry as a world-leader in designing, supplying and supporting military vehicles. This exciting venture clearly demonstrates how Defence sits at the heart of the prosperity agenda. Its benefits will be felt in the West Midlands and across the UK defence supply chain, creating jobs, boosting exports and guaranteeing our technical skills base into the future.” RBSL will draw on Rheinmetall’s broader military vehicle technologies combined with the additional capabilities and systems brought to the Joint Venture by BAE Systems’ Land UK business, such as Trojan, Terrier, Warrior, military bridging and the AS90 self-propelled artillery system. RBSL will have the potential to create hundreds of additional UK jobs, both in Telford and the wider supply chain. Peter Hardisty, formerly of Rheinmetall UK, has been appointed as Managing Director of the new company. He said: “RBSL is a new business drawing on the significant strengths and expertise of both BAE Systems Land UK and Rheinmetall. Our employees in Telford, Bristol, and Washington (UK) have a valuable skill set and extensive experience in combat vehicle engineering. With new orders, we shall be able to sustain these capabilities and expand over the coming years, seeking new opportunities in the UK and overseas.” The new management team that will lead RBSL into the future also includes Carrie White as Finance Director and Phil Simon as Operations Director, both of whom join from BAE Systems. Regulatory approval for the joint venture was granted on 13 June 2019. Rheinmetall Defence is one of the world’s leading makers of military vehicles and systems. In the United Kingdom the Group is already present in the form of Rheinmetall Defence UK and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles UK. These two businesses are well-established suppliers to the British Ministry of Defence. They assist Her Majesty’s Armed Forces in a number of areas, including vehicle systems, ammunition and technical support. For many decades BAE Systems has been the UK’s premier land systems manufacturer and source of technical support. BAE Systems companies have produced the Challenger 2 main battle tank, the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle as well as the Terrier combat engineering vehicle. BAE Systems Land UK is currently supporting the British Ministry of Defence and British Army in maintaining and upgrading the operational effectiveness of the UK’s combat vehicles and systems. It has over 400 employees devoted to military vehicle systems, primarily in Telford in the West Midlands. Excluded from the Joint Venture are activities of BAE Systems Land UK in the field of weapons and ammunition in Great Britain, as well as the CTAI project with Nexter. Corporate Sector Defence Press and Information Oliver Hoffmann Rheinmetall Platz 1 Phone: +49 211 473-4748 Data protection application process Datenschutz Instagram	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1510
__label__wiki	0.93286	0.93286	Legends in Concert: Atlantic Crossing Tony Bennett And Tom Jones 'Atlantic Crossing' is a collaboration of two of the greatest music talents in the 20th Century. Due to their onstage charisma and large record sales, the two have both enjoyed tremendous success, despite the differences in their musical styles. On this exclusive performance you will find classics such as "I Left My Heart In San Francisco", by Bennett and "What's New Pussycat," by Jones in addition to seventeen more of their superb greatest hits. Tony Bennett And Tom Jones Available In: Jazz, Pop, Oldies Jazz, Pop, Oldies, Blues, Singer Songwriter, Vocal, Rock, Country, Festivals And Events, Soul, Foreign Don’t Get Around Much Anymore What’s New Pussycat What In The World Lullaby Of Broadway Help Me Make It Through The Night I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry Sophisticated Lady How Time Slips Away This Can’t Be Love Who Can I Turn To Legends in Concert - The Sound of Velvet Enjoy an evening with Tony Bennett, one of the finest singers of popular songs that has ever lived, Two Strong Hearts John Farnham and Olivia Newton John Everyone who experienced this amazing show would attest that this was more than two artists simply sharing a bill. This was two long-time friends embracing each other's vast catalogue of monster hits and fan favourites, delivered with a wit and emotion only ascertained through a close personal relationship. With a 60-piece orchestra behind them, Farnham and Newton-John recently sold out houses around the country. With Chong Lim leading the orchestra, alongside Farnham's core band and singers, audiences were treated to a thrilling series of gigs that saw each artist dig into their own personal songbook with stunning results. Jazz Icons: Dave Brubeck boasts two beautifully filmed concerts from one of the most beloved quartets in jazz history. Captured at the pinnacle of their power and popularity, Paul Desmond (alto sax), Joe Morello (drums), Eugene Wright (bass) and Dave Brubeck (piano) explore the trails they blazed into the realm of odd time signatures with “Forty Days” and two versions of their groundbreaking hit “Take Five,” as well as forays into world music with two unique interpretations of “Koto Song.” Their intimate onstage chemistry and impeccable musicianship made the DBQ an award-winning jazz supergroup. Features: 24-page booklet; liner notes by Darius Brubeck; foreword by Doug Ramsey; cover photo by Gus Schuettler; booklet photos by Chuck Stewart, Lee Tanner, Jan Persson, Susanne Schapowalow, and Ray Avery; memorabilia collage; much more! 67 minutes. Jazz Legends - Duke Ellington and His Orchestra (1929-1943) by Duke Ellington, includes a series of short films made in Hollywood featuring Ellington performing his biggest hits: Black And Tan (1929) directed by Dudley Murphy; Check and Double Check (1930) directed by Melville Brown; Symphony in Black (1934) directed by Fred Waller; Paramount Pictoral No.889 (1937); The Hit Parade of 1937; and RKO Jamboree No.7 (1943) directed by Jay Bonafield. . In his inimitable style and memorable voice, the undisputed king of schmooz performs a fabulous collection of all-time favourites. Hits include 'That's Amore'. Selling over 100 million records worldwide over 6 decades, with hits such as "hey good looking" and "papa loves mambo" both performed here in front of the cameras and presented on this fabulous dvd compilation At The Royal Festival ‘At The Royal Festival Hall’ was filmed at London’s famous venue on November 16, 1970.The concert was introduced by HSH Princess Grace of Monaco, the former Grace Kelly, who had co-starred with Sinatra in the film “High Society”. The setlist includes a superb rendition of George Harrison’s classic love song “Something” alongside classic songs such as “Pennies From Heaven,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “My Kind Of Town” and “My Way.” Charged with the electricity of a heavyweight prizefight, The Main Event was filmed live at Madison Square Garden, a venue usually reserved for sporting events and rock 'n' roll concerts. Sinatra dazzles the crowd with contemporary numbers such as "You Are The Sunshine Of My Life" and "Let Me Try Again" and delivers the knockout blow with signature tunes "My Kind Of Town" and "My Way." Gene Vincent And Eddie Cochran Vincent Eugene Craddock, known as Gene Vincent, was an American musician who pioneered the styles of rock and roll and rockabilly. His 1956 top ten hit with his Blue Caps, ""Be-Bop-A-Lula"", featured here, is considered a significant early example of rockabilly. He is a member of the Rock and Roll and Rockabilly Halls of Fame. In 1956 he wrote ""Be-Bop-A-Lula"", No. 102 on Rolling Stone magazine's ""500 Greatest Rock and Roll Songs of All Time"" list. ""Be-Bop-A-Lula"" was not on Vincent's first album and was picked by Capitol producer Ken Nelson as the B side of his first single. By the time Capitol released the single, ""Be-Bop-A-Lula"" had already gained attention from the public and radio DJs. The song was picked up and played by other U.S. radio stations (obscuring the original ""A-side"" song), and became a hit and launched Vincent as a rock 'n' roll star. Ray Edward 'Eddie' Cochran was an American rock and roll pioneer who, in his brief career, had a small but lasting influence on rock music through his guitar playing. Cochran's rockabilly songs, such as ""C'mon Everybody"", ""Somethin' Else"", and ""Summertime Blues"", captured teenage frustration and desire in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He experimented with multitrack recording and overdubbing even on his earliest singles, and was also able to play piano, bass and drums. Cochran was born in Minnesota and moved with his family to California in the early 1950s. He was involved with music from an early age, playing in the school band and teaching himself to play blues guitar. His first success came when he performed the song ""Twenty Flight Rock"" in the movie The Girl Can't Help It, starring Jayne Mansfield. Soon afterward, Liberty Records signed him to a recording contract. Cochran died aged 21 after a road accident in the town of Chippenham, Wiltshire, during his British tour in April 1960. Though his best-known songs were released during his lifetime, more of his songs were released posthumously. In 1987, Cochran was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His songs have been much covered by bands such as The Who, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Dick Dale & his Del-Tones, Blue Cheer, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Humble Pie, Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Teenage Head, Tiger Army, UFO, The White Stripes, Stray Cats, and the Sex Pistols." In this thrilling program, Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield - those seminal figures known to the world as the Righteous Brothers - have reunited to bring back "blue-eyed soul" music. Filmed live at the Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles, this show includes all of their greatest hits: Old Time Rock & Roll, (You're My) Soul and Inspiration, Young Blood, Ebb Tide, Georgia On My Mind, Let It Be Me, Guess Who, Just Once in My Life, Rock & Roll Heaven, Brown Eyed Woman, Hold On! I'm Coming, Soul Man, Unchained Melody, Justine, Ko Ko Joe, Little Latin Lupe Lu, My Babe, You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'. Legends in Concert: The Gentle Man James Travis "Jim" Reeves was an American country and popular music singer-songwriter. With records charting from the 1950s to the 1980s, he became well known as a practitioner of the Nashville sound (a mixture of older country-style music with elements of popular music). Known as "Gentleman Jim", his songs continued to chart for years after his death. Reeves died at age 40 in the crash of a private airplane. He is a member of both the Country Music and Texas Country Music Halls of Fame. Jim Reeves performs at his best in this television special, entertaining a delighted audience with twenty one of his most classic, timeless hits. A must watch for lovers of country and western music and includes best selling hits 'Dear Hearts,' 'Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,' 'Bimbo,' 'Gentle People' and many more. Cheek to Cheek: Live Tony Bennett And Lady Gaga Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga perform songs from the Great American Songbook including such beloved standards as "Anything Goes," "Cheek to Cheek," "Lush Life," "Sophisticated Lady," and "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)." Charlie Rich And Friends In this unforgettable television special, we are brought some of the finest performances by some of America's greatest country rock singers. Featuring eighteen greatest songs by Charlie Rich, his charm and unique country-rock sound help to make this an epic performance to watch. Nicknamed 'The Silver Fox' due to his unique charm, Charlie performs hits such as 'Stand By Your Man,' 'Let's Take It Nice And Easy' and 'Behind Closed Doors.' He is accompanied by some of the finest country singers in the industry. Directors Bayron Binkley, Dennis Glore Recorded at Church Street Station Once again the legends in concert series captures all the atmosphere and magic enjoyed by millions in awe of Sammy Davis Jr. a.k.a (mr wonderful) in concert a must for any fan of his. 15 tracks live in concert by the original black Jewish rat-packer. Mr. Wonderful himself, Mr. Sammy Davis Jr. captured live in his prime, performing his best-known hits including 'Birth Of The Blues' and .You Rascal You.' Live at the Cote Dazur Duke Ellington And Ella Fitzgerald This latest addition to the Norman Granz collection, brings together two of the greatest names in jazz: Duke Ellington & Ella Fitzgerald. The film sees Duke performing live in the South of France with Ella Fitzgerald as his special guest . You'll also enjoy unseen footage of Duke Ellington in one of his last ever live performances jamming with Joe Pass, Ray Brown and Louie Bellson. In the 1950s, the easy listening singer embarked on a solo career with a string of hits, propelling him into the limelight as a star. Andy Williams also hosted his own TV show which ran for nine years and this show features him singing with the elite of that era. Also featured on this show are fifteen of Wiliiam's all time classics, including "Just In Time," "You Do Something To Me," "I've Grown Accustomed To Your Face" and many more. Legends in Conert Gene Krupa, an American jazz and big band drummer and composer, was well known for his highly energetic and flamboyant style. In this performance, many of his well known recordings are featured with some of the biggest orchestras of the time. Judy, Frank, and Dean: Once in a Lifetime This CBS special, filmed in 1962 and colorized in this version, brings together three legends in a once-in-a-lifetime concert. Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin indulge in their usual Rat Pack high jinks, swilling drinks, trading barbs and crooning catchy tunes. But it's Judy Garland in the spotlight here, the crown jewel among gems, belting out classics such as "The Man That Got Away," "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" and more. Bobby Darin, was an American singer who performed in a range of music genres, including pop, rock, jazz, folk, and country. Through the 1960s he became more active politically and worked on Robert Kennedy's presidential campaign. He was present with his campaign at the hotel in Los Angeles on the evening of his assassination. Occurring during the same year as he learned of the true nature of his birth, these events deeply affected Darin and sent him into a long period of seclusion. Although he made a successful television comeback, his health was beginning to fail, as he had always expected, following bouts of rheumatic fever in childhood. This knowledge of his vulnerability had always spurred him on to exploit his musical talent while still young. He died at 37, following a heart operation in Los Angeles. Little Richard And Friends An American singer-songwriter, musician, recording artist, and actor - Little Richard stars in this fabulous television special, along with performances from other legendary artists including Chuck Berry and Billy Halley. Louis Armstrong: All Star Swing and Jazz Concert The greats of Swing and Jazz: Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Dave Brubeck, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Gene Krupa, and more. This amazing line-up of legendary talent came together in 1972 for a one-off tribute to the great Louis Armstrong. A unique event in music history with some of the greatest jazz legends of the 20th Century performing together. For Celtic Thunder, Sharon Browne has teamed up with Grammy-nominated Irish songwriting and composing veteran Phil Coulter to produce a show that includes an eclectic mix of songs ranging from the traditional "Mountains of Mourne" and "Come By the Hills" to international hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado," as well as original compositions by Coulter, who has written hits for Elvis Presley ("My Boy") and the Bay City Rollers, and performed with Van Morrison, Tom Jones, and the Rolling Stones. The ensemble numbers in Celtic Thunder reflect the power of the vocalists, who range in age from 14 to 40, and feature songs that celebrate a common Celtic heritage. It's Entertainment! It’s Entertainment! focuses on Celtic Thunder’s affinity for a great popular song. A musical revue spanning six decades, It's Entertainment! is a perfect showcase for Celtic Thunder's versatile and talented performers. Night Sessions - Live in Concert Chris Botti and Friends Chris Botti & Friends: Night Sessions - Live In Concert features the jazz trumpeter's star-studded performance at the historic El Rey Theater in Los Angeles in December 2001. This video features guest vocal appearances from Sting and Shawn Colvin. Friends and Wife About the Loss Living In The Material World	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1513
__label__cc	0.554198	0.445802	Youth prisons are and making Virginia less safe Virginia’s two juvenile prisons are over 100 miles away from high committing communities in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia. Youth whose families cannot visit them during visitation hours have to pay between $5 and $10 per phone call to their families. These youth make an average of between 35 and 50 cents an hour in their institutional work program. Families with youth under the age of 18 must pay child support to the Department of Juvenile Justice when they are in juvenile prison. However, these parents have no control over the quality of services their child receives while in prison. Youth prisons are Often costing considerably more than alternatives that have been proven to be more effective, youth prisons are costly and wholly ineffective at teaching young people how to be law-abiding citizens. 38% of the state’s Juvenile Justice budget goes to confining youth in these prisons, even though they only serve 10% of the youth in the system. Many young people are confined to these facilities for low level offenses, and young people of color are confined to these facilities at rates much higher than young white people, despite young people of color making up fewer of the total juvenile intakes into the juvenile justice system. Less than half of the youth admitted to the Department of Juvenile Justice custody in 2014 were admitted on person felonies, many on misdemeanor of probation violations. Furthermore, though young people of color were only 43% of the intake population in 2014, they account for over 70% of the commitments to the system. Incarcerating youth in large prisons far from home When young people get out of youth prisons, they are more likely to come home and commit further crimes, instead of being directed towards a better path. For every year spent in a youth prison in Virginia, a young person’s probability of being arrested for another crime when they get out increases by nearly a third. Virginia’s latest 3 year re-conviction rate for youth committed and released from a juvenile prison is 73.5%. (DJJ Data Resource Guide 2014) Virginia can do There are alternatives to youth prisons that are proven ways to hold young people who commit a crime accountable for what they’ve done while ensuring they have the tools, skills, and community support to avoid committing more crimes when they return home. These methods are common sense and evidence-based. Alternatives to youth prisons, like Functional Family Therapy, Multisystemic Therapy, Restorative Justice, and Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care, actually yield a return on the state’s investment, and are proven to reduce recidivism rates by 10, 50, and even 70% when implemented correctly.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1516
__label__wiki	0.846951	0.846951	Media & Memories The History of Robinsons Cider The Robinson family have been producing cider in Tenbury, “The Town in the Orchard”, for well over 200 years, the knowledge passing from father to son for at least eight generations. Some of the former Robinson hostelries in Tenbury have completely disappeared from sight and memory now but many are still offering hospitality or, like the Cage in Church Street, now a private home, are still just discernable. Among the ones that have gone are The Bay Horse, which used to be at 8 Teme Street; The Tanners Arms (31/31a Cross Street); and The Kings Arms which used to be in Teme Street, probably somewhere near the old Corn Exchange which itself was built in “Robinson’s Yard” in 1843. In the 1780’s and 1790’s Robert Robinson made cider for sale at the Bay Horse. He was followed by his son Robert, but his son Robert decided to follow a career in the Law. He was High Bailiff in the County Court of Worcestershire (and Secretary of the Tenbury Improvement Company who built the Pump Rooms in the town) but in 1879 he purchased the Rose and Crown across the River Teme in Burford. The Robinson family then held the Rose and Crown for the next 110 years. It was in the premises that used to stand behind that the cider business really developed. The High Bailiff’s son, another Robert (seen below in top hat) ran the Rose and Crown after him. In the course of the 20th century the Robinsons also held the Peacock, the Royal Oak and the Cage, which used to be in Church Street, by the Round Market in Tenbury. The Cage is a private residence now but there is still a bird cage hanging on the wall above the pavement and a pane of etched glass, saying “Smoke Room” to bear witness. In the 1930’s the family acquired the assets of the Tenbury Aerated Water Company and started to produce soft drinks. Robert’s sons Robert (not shown in the photo left: he died in France in 1918) Charles (left of the group), Jack (second from left: when this picture was taken in the 1950’s he was on a rare visit from New Zealand where he and Tiri, his Maori wife, spent all of their long & happy married life), Rupert (in the dark suit) and Barney (on the right) were all born at the Rose and Crown in the 1890’s. The Robinsons continued to make cider there until 1959 when the decision was made to cease commercial cider making and concentrate on soft drinks production (although they kept one press, the one we use today, and continued to make enough cider for their own consumption). In the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s farm mechanization increased and the practice of including a daily ration of cider as part of the farm workers’ wages fell away, as indeed did the number of farm workers. For most farmers, cider apple growing became little more than a fringe activity but they could still sell their cider fruit to the Robinsons and the proceeds would often be sufficient to pay the rent for the whole farm for a year. After the Second World War, Barrington and his brother Robert (“Bob” Robinson) joinedRobinson’s Cider Works in 1955 their father Rupert and uncle Charles in the business. In the 1970’s, 1980’s and 1990’s Barrington and his son Robert (who joined in 1977 and is shown last in the family photos sequence) significantly developed their interests in the soft drinks (Wells Soft Drinks), packaging and mineral water bottling industries. By the time the business was sold in 1998 it was one of the largest and most dynamic in its market. In 2005, that irrepressible cider-making gene emerged once more. Robert Robinson decided to refurbish the 70 year old press the family held on to in 1959 and press apples to make cider for public consumption again after an absence from the market of almost 50 years. Cider PressIn 2006, Robinsons Fine Dry Cider, made on that original press from the Rose and Crown premises was test marketed in Tenbury. Much of the fruit came from the same orchards that furnished apples for Robinsons classic ciders in the 1940’s and 1950’s. It was a very pleasant surprise to discover that despite a 50 year absence from the market, the Robinsons Tenbury Cider brand was still so strong and so positively held in local memory. Share This Page Online Robinsons Cider Limited Little Hereford SY8 4LR E: RobinsonsCider@aol.com Your Data – GDPR Copyright Robinsons Cider Online store down for Maintanence until 20th July. Please visit our stockists page. Dismiss This site uses cookies to improve your experience More info	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1517
__label__wiki	0.901671	0.901671	New protégés embark on exciting artistic journey 2014-2015 mentoring year Chance of a lifetime for talented artists Ben Frost The Wasp Factory Seven outstanding young talents from seven countries around the world have been chosen as protégés for 2014-2015 of the Rolex Arts Initiative. The seven emerging artists – from Paraguay, Portugal, Mexico, Bulgaria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the US and Israel – have each been personally selected by the mentor in their discipline. This cycle’s distinguished artistic masters, who will spend a year in close collaboration with their protégés, are: Olafur Eliasson (visual arts), Alejandro G. Iñárritu (film), Michael Ondaatje (literature), Alexei Ratmansky (dance), Kaija Saariaho (music), Jennifer Tipton (theatre) and Peter Zumthor (architecture). The seven new protégés are: Architecture: Gloria Cabral (Paraguay) Driven by a profound belief in a collaborative approach to her work, Paraguayan architect Gloria Cabral, 31, is a partner in the firm Gabinete de Arquitectura. Her architectural philosophy reflects her originality as she interacts with fellow architects on projects that are informed by strong environmental and social concerns and the creative use of local materials. Dance: Myles Thatcher (United States) Acknowledged for his versatility and talent as a rising star of classical ballet, American dancer and choreographer Myles Thatcher, 23, trained at the Harid Conservatory, Ellison Ballet and San Francisco Ballet, which he officially joined as part of the corps de ballet in 2010. He will now choreograph a piece for the San Francisco Ballet’s 2015 repertory season. Film: Tom Shoval (Israel) Obsessed with films since childhood, Israeli film-maker and screenwriter Tom Shoval, 32, graduated from Jerusalem’s Sam Spiegel Film & TV School and has continued making short films that have garnered awards at international film festivals. His debut film, Youth (2013), premiered at the Berlinale and won Best Film at the Jerusalem Film Festival. Literature: Miroslav Penkov (Bulgaria) Dedicated to giving voice to his countrymen by examining the history and culture of Bulgaria in his work, writer Miroslav Penkov, 31, earned an MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Arkansas and is an Assistant Professor of English in the Creative Writing Program at the University of North Texas. Winner of the 2012 BBC International Short Story Award, Penkov writes in both English and Bulgarian. Music: Vasco Mendonça (Portugal) Portuguese composer Vasco Mendonça, 36, has begun to attract international attention for such works as his recently completed chamber music piece, The Boys of Summer (2012), and an hour-long chamber opera, The House Taken Over (2013). Both were co-commissioned by the Aix-en-Provence International Opera Festival, which has premiered several of his compositions. Mendonça premiered Ping (2013) in the UK. He also teaches Analysis and Composition at Lisbon’s Lusiada University. Theatre: Sebastián Solórzano Rodríguez (Mexico) Using painting and experimental cinema as references when he designs light, Mexican lighting designer Sebastián Solórzano Rodriguez, 27, has created stage lighting for the Centro de Producción de Danza Contemporanea (National Contemporary Dance Company of Mexico) and Luz Y Fuerza: Cine Expandido (Expanded Cinema), an interdisciplinary group he co-founded that makes hand-made light devices for art installations and live cinema performances. Visual Arts: Sammy Baloji (Democratic Republic of Congo) Using photography as a tool of observation to write on his society, Congolese artist and photographer Sammy Baloji, 35, has been widely exhibited in Europe, the US, and Africa. He works between Belgium and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he creates haunting photomontages of his homeland. Winner of the Prix Afrique en création (2007), the Prince Claus Award (2008), and the Spiegel Prize (2012), Baloji founded the Lubumbashi Biennale and the Picha Art Centre. The seven new protégés were chosen from 25 finalists from 21 countries, from an original field of 154 artists who were nominated and invited to apply for mentorships after a global talent search by an expert nominating panel formed for each discipline. Each mentor then met and interviewed the three to four finalists, selecting the person he or she felt would benefit most from intense, personal guidance over the course of the mentoring year. “We have confidence in the ability of the 2014-2015 protégés to reach a new level of achievement following the life-changing, year-long collaboration with the mentor,” adds says Rebecca Irvin, head of philanthropy. “All of us at Rolex look forward to seeing what artistic surprises this new cycle of the programme will bring.” February 2014 The seven new mentors are selecting their protégés over the next few weeks.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1518
__label__wiki	0.691474	0.691474	France Insoumise versus the Front National Image: aga7ta / Shutterstock The Differences Between Far-Right and Left-wing Populism Yann Le Lann, Antoine de Cabanes (first published by transform! Europe) , 05.03.2018 The electoral cycle of 2017 is a turning point in the French political landscape. The presidential and legislative elections were a major rupture which disrupted the political field. Historically French politics were structured by a dividing line opposing two poles along the left/right cleavage, even though the composition of the two poles evolved over time, thus reflecting the socio-economic transformations of the French society and the changes in the balance of forces in the political field. Since the 1980s, despite some events (1), the social-democrats were the leading force of the left camp while the liberal-conservative dominated the right-wing pole. The first round of the 2017 presidential election ended this structuration of the political field for good: the social democrats arrived in fifth position when the conservatives were, for the first time since the establishment of the Fifth Republic, eliminated in the first round of the election. A centrist neoliberal candidate, supported by a party created a year before the election, arrived in first position whereas, among the left and the right, the two main parties were outpaced by their historical challengers. Indeed, for the first time since the 1970s the radical left, incarnated by Mélenchon, surpassed the Parti Socialiste (PS) while the far right's candidate, Marine Le Pen defeated François Fillon and accessed to the second round of the election. The second round of the election and the legislative elections sanctioned Macron’s victory, through a triumphal result in the second round (2) and the election of an absolute majority in the Assemblée Nationale (3). The legislative elections also confirmed the end of the bipolarisation and the fragmentation of the political field as the PS gathered less votes than Mélenchon's movement, France Insoumise. The electoral erosion of Les Républicains and the disintegration of the PS's electorate benefited Macron and his central liberal bloc but also the radical left and the far right; thus reviving among journalists, political commentators and editorial writers the idea of a rise of populism and anti-system votes in times of political crisis and reconstruction. This narrative has already been mobilized in the 2012 presidential election (4) and pretends to explain together the rise of the radical left and the far right, thereby implying the existence of ideological and electoral convergences between the radical left and the far right. According to this thesis, in a context of socio-economic crisis, the political translation of the crisis consists in a rise of so called "extremist parties" and the propagation of their ideological views among the population, due to the loss of credit of the traditional political parties. This presumed radicalisation of the population, particularly in the elections, would be catalysed by the use of populism by the "extremist parties". The term populist designates, in this narrative, the association of a demagogic discourse promoted by a charismatic leader, a radical electoral platform contesting the socio-economic and political order, a conflictual attitude towards the media and the establishment (the elites) and a confrontational analysis grid of society (5, 6). This combination is supposed to be particularly efficient for conquering the votes of the lower social classes and the lower middle-class which would be more receptive to the anti-system discourse due to their lack of political capital and the socio-economic downgrading of their situation. This conceptualisation of populism postulates ideological similarities between the far and radical left and the extreme right as both contests the current socio-economic order built upon a neoliberal consensus, which blurs the left/right cleavage. Therefore, such thesis considers logically that socio-economic crisis translates, according to the specific historical structuring of the political field in each country (7), into the rise of right-wing or of left-wing populism, or both. In the specific case of a simultaneous progression of right and left-wing populism, they would share a common electoral basis which may move from one populism to another because of the programmatic and ideological similitudes. This narrative is of course politically leaning and mobilized by specific actors in order to impose their vision and categorisation of the political dynamics taking place in many European countries. Such a discourse relies on the obliteration of most of the concepts coming from electoral sociology and political science and produce a basis for discrediting any contestation of the neoliberal consensus which unites, all over Europe and for some decades now, social democracy and the classical right (understood as the main liberal conservative parties). This consensus led to a devitalisation of the left/right cleavage and the transformation of the two-party system into the perpetuation of similar policies, despite the change of power from major party to another. Several elements tend to confirm this thesis. The financial crisis followed by the sovereign debt crisis and the implementation of austerity policies in almost every country of the European Union, by social-democrats and right-wing parties, come out on a radical change of the political field of several countries, especially the one which suffered the most from the crisis and austerity (8). These changes consist in the weakening and even the collapse of the major political parties and the rise of radical movements from the right and the left. In Greece, PASOK fell to 4.7% of the votes while the radical left, incarnated by SYRIZA, accessed to power in 2015 with more than 35%. In Austria, the FPÖ became the second party in the 2017 elections, in Spain the PSOE has been followed closely by Podemos in the last two general elections. The French 2017 electoral cycle seems to validate this theory as the disintegration of the two-party system coincided with unprecedented electoral results (9) for the radical left and the far right in a context of high unemployment and precariousness and as Mélenchon and Le Pen both endorse the qualifying term of populist. In a context of intensified polarization of the political field, the campaign staged the confrontation between Le Pen and Mélenchon as the competition for conquering what Laclau called the "nebulous no man's land" (10) between right wing and left wing populism, mainly composed by this reified people. In this article, we will try, through a rigorous and thorough analysis of the Mélenchon and Le Pen's electorates to assess the relevance of the hypothesis of an electoral and ideological porosity between right-wing and left-wing populism. We will mobilize a comparative perspective, in light of the empirical material provided by the polls and surveys, in order to discuss the existence or not of an ideological and social border distinguishing right and left wing populism. Mélenchon and Le Pen’s electorates: two different socio-economic structuring Polarization of the working classes: a division between the radical left and the far right A central aspect of the amalgam between right-wing and left-wing populism is the similarity of their social and electoral basis: the antagonistic interpretation of society and the anti-system discourse would aim at gathering the "real" people against the elites, depicted as the ruling classes (or the 1%) by the left-wing populism and the cosmopolitan establishment by the right wing populism. The people, as a political subject, is seen as composed of the social groups which have been the victims of the policies implemented by the elites and more generally the social rejects of the socio-economic and political order in place. Traditionally these social groups are the lower social classes (employees, workers), the youth, the outsiders of the labour market and the losers of the globalisation process in all its dimensions. The distribution of the votes of the social groups making up the working classes shows without contest an over-representation of the vote in favour of the two populist candidates. According to the survey realised by Ifop (11), 54% of the employees who voted in the first round voted for one of these two candidates (24% voted for Mélenchon and 30% for Le Pen) while 64% of the workers who voted chose either the Mélenchon or the Le Pen ballot (25% voted for Mélenchon and 39% for Le Pen). Among all votes cast, the sum of Le Pen and Mélenchon's results only reaches 40.88%. Le Pen scored first among workers' and employees' vote and Mélenchon second whereas, in the election, Le Pen arrived second and Mélenchon fourth. The distribution of the votes of the intermediate professions (lower middle class) shows an underrepresentation of Le Pen who gathered only 17% but Mélenchon reached 26% and had first place in this category (see graph 1 (pdf)). The vote distribution according to voters' income levels confirms the observation from the socio-professional categories: the lower the incomes are, the higher the vote for Le Pen or for Mélenchon is. This trend is the opposite of Fillon's and Macron's, as their vote percentage rise as the income increases. According to the IPSOS survey (12), the addition of the votes in favour of Mélenchon and Le Pen represents more than 50% among the people earning less than 2000€ a month. Among voters earning less than 1250€, Mélenchon gathered 25% of the votes and Le Pen gathered 32% while among voters earning from 1250€ to 2000€ Mélenchon and Le Pen reached respectively 23% and 29%. In these two categories Le Pen arrived first and Mélenchon second, distancing by far Macron and Fillon. Among voters earning more than 2000€, both Mélenchon and Le Pen are underrepresented in relation to their results among the whole voting population. In the lower social categories making up the working classes, the observations confirm a strong polarisation of the electorate between right-wing and left-wing populism, especially among workers and employees. The relation to globalisation is a key element in the identification of anti-system tendencies, and this variable also validates the characterisation of Mélenchon and Le Pen's votes as similar. 56% (13) of Mélenchon's voters define themselves as losers and victims of globalisation and 68% of Le Pen's voters adopt the same self-definition; only 42% of the whole voting population defines itself this way, showing a clear overrepresentation in the case of Mélenchon and Le Pen. The distribution of the voters defining themselves as losers and victims of globalisation goes in the same direction, as 25% of them voted for Mélenchon and 34% voted for Le Pen. More than half of the people who subjectively defines themselves as losers and victims of globalisation voted for a populist candidate while those who consider among themselves as winners, the sum of the populist candidates' scores reached only 24%. In addition, according to Viavoice (14), the combined result for Le Pen and Mélenchon, among people who see economic globalisation as a threat, reaches 54% (23% for Mélenchon, 31% for Le Pen). The distribution of the votes according to the level of education of the voters also validates the idea of an overrepresentation of Mélenchon and Le Pen among those with a very low level of qualification. 20% of voters with a level of education below A-level voted for Mélenchon and 31% of them voted for Le Pen; when it comes to the people holding only an A-level 22% voted for Mélenchon and 25% for Le Pen (15). Among the voters with higher-education degrees, the votes for Mélenchon and Le Pen are underrepresented, in relation to the whole voting population who cast a ballot: Mélenchon gathered 16% of the votes of the electors holding a master degree or a PhD and only 8% for Le Pen. Finally, the anti-system vote is often considered more important among the youth and particularly low among senior citizens, since young people would be more inclined to contest the socio-economic order while older persons prefers stability and therefore vote for conserve the existing order. Mélenchon and Le Pen are slightly overrepresented among the voters below 35 (26% for Mélenchon, 23% for Le Pen (16)) but distinctly underrepresented among the over 65 voters (12% for Mélenchon and 14% for Le Pen). Both candidates attract more young people than Macron does and most importantly than Fillon who reaches 39% among the over 65 voters. The crossing of the gender and age variables also provides some understanding of the similarities between Le Pen and Mélenchon’s constituencies: among those under 35, the scores are higher for women than men whereas it is the opposite for the people from 35 to 64 (beyond 65 no significant change) (17). The high scores of Mélenchon and Le Pen among the lower social classes, among the people with low incomes and low educational levels, seem to validate the mainstream analysis of populism. The indicators commonly used to identify the social groups tempted by populist and anti-system thoughts shows an over representation of the votes for Mélenchon and Le Pen. Two populisms, two different social bases However, these indicators mask the heterogeneity of fragmented social groups and the partial conclusion built upon them tends to reify the working classes by not considering the complexity of the social structure. In a rigorous scientific analysis (18), the political scientist Luc Rouban crossed the diploma and estate variables in order to gain an in-depth view of the composition of the lower social classes who voted for Mélenchon and Le Pen. Mélenchon's and Le Pen's electorates share the same level of estate (measured as the addition of property and assets) and this level is much lower than that of Fillon's and Macron's voters and still lower than Hamon's. Nevertheless, with a similar level of estate, Mélenchon's voters are much more qualified (almost as qualified as Fillon's electorate) when Hamon and Macron's electorates are the most qualified. Voters with a level of qualification below A-level represents 45.5% of the Le Pen's electorate and only 30.7% of Mélenchon's, while voters who received a higher education represents 39% of Mélenchon's electorate and 24.9% of Le Pen's (19). Rouban also crossed the income variable with the diploma and revealed that, at a similar level of education, it is Mélenchon's constituency that earns the lowest income. His hypothesis is a social downgrading of the Mélenchon's electorate relatively to its diplomas and qualifications, thus explaining the vote for Mélenchon as a mobilisation against this relative frustration (20). The vote for Le Pen would then be the consequence of an absolute frustration generated by the combination of low income and the absence of any qualification. If this hypothesis seems relevant, it needs to be combined with the analysis of the impact of higher levels of education on the political preferences in order to explain the different voting options of the two kinds of frustration. In order words, academic formation results in an increase in political and cultural capitals and generally favours a more left-oriented vote and an overrepresentation of the radical left, thus explaining the difference in value systems and the vote for one or the other populism (21). In addition, we can observe significant differences between Le Pen’s and Mélenchon's electorate in terms of geographical location, which is not a neutral parameter in a country structured by socio-economic spatial organisation. The territorial divide of French electoral map is indeed cleaved by inequalities and the lower social classes mainly live in the suburbs of big conurbation, in the suburban areas, or in rural areas. The more densely populated the place of residence, the lower Le Pen's score: she received 23 % in rural areas, 25% in cities below 20 000 inhabitants, 24% in cities from 20 000 to 100 000, 21% in cities over 100 000 inhabitants and only 14% in the urban area of Paris (22). Significantly, a large part of the working classes lives in the suburbs of Paris in culturally mixed neighbourhoods with a high proportion of immigrants or descendants of immigrants, and Le Pen underperformed in these areas and therefore in these segments of the working classes (23). The FN's working classes electorate is composed of workers and employees living mostly in suburban areas or small regional cities and in rural areas. On the other hand Mélenchon's vote is much more equally distributed according to the voter's place of residence (18% in rural areas, 19% in the Parisian urban area and 21% in the other cities). Lastly, the FN's vote is slightly underrepresented among the unemployed (20% (24)) while Mélenchon is clearly overrepresented with 32% (The same can be said of Hamon who got 9% among the unemployed – as against his 6.36% total vote percentage - when Fillon is strongly underrepresented with 10% - as against his 20% total). These figures invalidate the presumed link between unemployment and the rise of the Front National (25) and suggest a politicisation of the unemployed in line with the left-right cleavage even though it beneficiates mainly to the radical left. If the overrepresentation of Le Pen and Mélenchon among the lower social classes is masking differences among the working classes' constituencies, the overall composition of the two electorates also shows strong divergences between right-wing and left-wing populism. First of all, the lower social classes do not have the same weight in the two constituencies: the workers and employees represent 33.1% of Mélenchon's voters (50% of working-age voters) while they make up 42.5% of Le Pen's (67.2%) (26). Among Mélenchon's working-age voters, 21.6% are workers and 28.4% are employees but 13.9% are executive and intellectual professions and 29.8% belong to the intermediate professions. Among Le Pen's only 8.1% are executive and intellectual professions and 18.4% are from intermediate professions but 35% are employees and 32.3% are workers (see graph 2 (pdf)). Mélenchon's electorate is much more equally distributed than Le Pen's one and this equal distribution constitutes a major difference between the two. Le Pen’s electorate distribution is the inverse of Macron's, in terms of almost every indicator: Macron’s results increase according to the size of the cities whereas Le Pen's decline; the higher the incomes are the higher Macron’s results are and the lower Le Pen's are. In terms of socio-professional categories, Macron is overrepresented in the upper classes and also among the people with a high level of education. This inverse trend between Macron and Le Pen is also valid for Fillon whose trends are identical to Macron's in these respects. On the other hand, Mélenchon's results seem not to be affected by these indicators and his electorate looks extremely homogeneous comparatively to the entire electorate. Indeed, Mélenchon's results appear very evenly distributed among these variables. This implies a major difference between the two populisms, which is the weight of the lower social classes in their result: for Mélenchon they represent an important share of his votes whereas the lower social classes are the vital and indispensable component of Le Pen's vote, the segment allowing her to access to the second round. The weight of the working classes in the total amount of votes gathered by Marine Le Pen (more than 40%) also explains the importance, for academics (sociologists, political scientists) but also for left and radical left activists, of identifying and analysing the reasons and motives of these segments of the lower social classes to vote for the FN (27, 28). This difference of structure of electorates between the two populisms clearly distinguishes the right-wing and the left-wing populism: they do not attract the same segments of the anti-system and populist-friendly voters and, moreover, their social basis is different in terms of equilibrium among social groups, in addition to a divergent geographical localisation. Ideological cleavages are not obsolete yet: two diametrically opposite visions of the world Strong divergences in politicisation and political identity The past electoral behaviours of Le Pen's and Mélenchon's voters indicate the strong loyalty of their electorates. 85% of people who voted for Le Pen in 2012 voted again for her in 2017, which is the higher rate among all the candidates of the 2017 presidential election. 81% of Mélenchon's 2012 voters voted for him again in 2017 (29). Nonetheless, beside this similarity, the two electorates are radically different and non-permeable. The transfer of voters between Le Pen and Mélenchon from the 2012 election to the 2017 election is very low: only 2% of Mélenchon's 2017 voters had voted Le Pen in 2012 and conversely only 2% of Le Pen's 2017 voters had cast a ballot for Mélenchon in 2012 (30) (see graph 3 (pdf)). Le Pen expanded her electorate with former right-wing voters (15% of her 2017 voters voted Sarkozy in 2012) and with people who abstained or voted for a small candidate in 2012 or had since acquired the right to vote (13% of her 2017 voters). On the other hand, among 100 people who voted for Mélenchon in 2017, 34% had voted for him in 2012, 32% for Hollande and 25% had either abstained or voted for a small candidate or had not been old enough to vote. The share of voters coming from the opposite camp is very small for both candidates, indicating the inexistence of electoral porosity between them. The political self-positioning of the voters confirms this trend. According to Viavoice, 70% of Mélenchon's voters position themselves as left-wing, 19% as neither left nor right and only 3% as right-wing while 63% of Le Pen's voters claim to be right-wing, 24% neither left nor right and only 2% position themselves as left-wing. The political-party sympathies expressed by the voters also confirm the idea that there is no porosity: 68.4%31 of Le Pen voters consider themselves close to the FN, 11.2% close to the right and only 5.2% as close to the left (14.1% of voters declaring no political-party sympathy). On the other hand, 76.7% of Mélenchon's voters claim to be sympathetic to the left, 3.5% close to the right and only 1.3% as being close to the FN (16.4% of voters declaring no political-party sympathy). 84% (32) of the voters considering themselves close to the Front de Gauche voted Mélenchon while 0% voted for Le Pen; 62% of sympathisers of the far left voted Mélenchon along with 38% of the sympathisers of the Greens. Among the voters declaring sympathy for the Front National, 87% voted Le Pen and only 2% voted for Mélenchon (see graph 4 (pdf)). These statistics refute the thesis that the Front National expanded through the attraction of voters from the left who were disappointed by the left's inability to concretely improve living standards as well as its abandonment of its values (the struggle against inequality and of the promotion of social justice). The existence of a gaucho-lepénisme (33), the idea that left-wing voters moved electorally and ideologically to the far right (34, 35), has no empirical ground as the surveys converge to validate the idea of an electoral realignment of the right-wing electorate among the working classes for explaining the rise of the Front National (36). Indeed, the decrease the classical right's vote share among workers and employees coincided with the expansion of the FN in the lower social categories (37). Le Pen expanded her electorate through attracting right wing voters or non-politicised voters, and not from the left or the radical left (38). On the other hand, Mélenchon beneficiated from the support of former PS voters and the rallying of voters from various tendencies of the left (social-democrats, greens, far left) and succeeded in attracting new voters or former abstainers. The nonexistence of ideological porosity The issues and proposals considered by the voters as more or less important in the determining their vote point to very divergent concerns between the two constituencies. The three most determining elements for Mélenchon's electorate are the increase of wages and purchasing power, the struggle against unemployment and the struggle against precariousness (health comes fourth and the defence of public services in fifth position (39)). Environmental conservation and education are also central issues for Mélenchon's voters (both considered as crucial by 63%). For Le Pen's voters, the three main determinants, and by far, are the struggle against terrorism (93% see it as decisive), the struggle against illegal immigration (92%) and the struggle against delinquency and insecurity (85%) (see graph 5 (pdf)). For both candidates a few determinants are unifying the electorate and in each case, they are the expression of very ideologised principles: xenophobia, racism and Islamophobia for the FN (which come from the classic, traditional background of the far right), social justice and redistribution for Mélenchon. In Laclau's theorization (40), populism is a political strategy which aims at building the people into a political subject, in a context of decline of the historical propulsive antagonism (the class struggle) due to the fragmentation of its historical social basis (working classes and bourgeoisie), the running out of steam of its narrative (due to a new global geopolitical environment) and the emergence of new cleavages (feminism, anti-racism, anti-globalisation, environmentalism…). These new dividing lines caused the emergence of divergent social demands and, for Laclau, the populist strategy is a method for organising these demands in a coherent narrative for generating a "we" against a "them", in order to mobilize social groups whose interests are in contradiction. Populism aims at generating, through the elaboration of a narrative and a political subjectivation, a chain of equivalence between the divergent social demands. The determining elements of the vote of the Mélenchon and Le Pen's electorates reveal the existence of two diametrically opposed chains of equivalence. Mélenchon’s discourse united voters around an ecologist and left-wing project which included the sector-specific demands from the various traditions of the left and organised them in a coherent electoral platform. On the other hand, Le Pen's narrative gathered voters, with opposed socio-economic interests, around the struggle against an alleged threat against the French identity and the way of life of the population. This threat would come from the immigration of millions of foreigners from a Muslim background, who would impose their culture and religion (understood as a radical Islam supportive of jihadist terrorism), commit acts of delinquency and took the jobs and social benefits of the French workers. The fear of a dilution of the French identity and the disintegration of the French nation into a multiculturalist society dominated by Muslims unites the well-off conservative and traditionalist bourgeoisie and the precarious salaried workers who fear to lose his job. Laclau's theorisation of populism gives a conceptual ground for explaining the socio-economic heterogeneity of the electorate of Mélenchon and Le Pen as the discourses and electoral platforms produce a political identity shared by people with dissimilar interests, thus generating new discursive antagonisms. Interestingly, even if Mélenchon as Le Pen claim to belong neither to the right neither to the left, both of their chains of equivalence convey a revivification of central elements in the theoretical and ideological corpus of the radical left and of the far-right. Consequently, populism, in its theoretical conceptualisation, is nothing more than the construction of a political subject around a shared narrative which brings together divergent social demands from different segments of the population. Although a few political commentators and scholars may argue that left-wing and right-wing populism share similar aspects in their way of doing politics, as some of their strategic and discursive tools are alike, the substance of their political approaches is nevertheless radically different. An in-depth political survey on the first-round electorates, realized by IPSOS Sopra-Steria for the Fondation Jean Jaurès (41), exposed the extent of the ideological cleavage that separates Mélenchon's and Le Pen's electorate and identified four main elements of cleavage. The first one is the perception of the past and the future: most of Le Pen's voters are convinced that France is in decline while Mélenchon's voters strongly disapprove such statement. Le Pen's voters are very attached to traditions and the values from the past, unlike radical left voters. Secondly, they differentiate through their relationship to the "other" and more specifically to immigration and Islam. 95% of Le Pen's electors think that "there are too many foreigners in France" to only 30% of France Insoumise sympathisers; 58% of the France Insoumise sympathisers consider that "Islam is compatible with the values of the French society" while only 9% of the FN sympathisers agree with this affirmation. This Islamophobia of the FN, and the contrast with the religious tolerance of radical left voters, explains the distribution of the votes according to the voters' religious beliefs. 37% of the voters declaring themselves as Muslims voted for Mélenchon who arrived first among the Muslims' voters (only 5% of them voted for Le Pen) (42). The overrepresentation of Mélenchon and the underrepresentation of Le Pen in this category illustrate the strong differences between both electorates in term of values (tolerance and community life). Third, in terms of socio-economic issues, Mélenchon's voters strongly disagree with the idea that "unemployed people could easily find a job if they wanted to" and with the existence of dependant people who would live on welfare and social benefits at the expense of working people. In addition, the two electorates are also distinguished in their perception of political and social principles of organisation of society. 98% of FN voters think that "a true leader is needed in order to restore order" whereas Mélenchon's constituency do not share this perception that authoritarian rule is necessary to govern society. Similarly, Mélenchon's voters do not accept the possibility of a political regime other than democracy while 55% of FN voters think that a system different from democracy could function just as well. Last but not least, the two electorates are sharply differentiated by their perception of regional and global issues; 88% of Mélenchon's voters defend the remain of France within the Eurozone (to 44% of Le Pen's voters), 59% see the European Union as a "positive thing" (to 17% of Le Pen's voters) and 59% are in favour of France increasing its opening to the world (to only 10% of Le Pen's voters). These results confirms the radical and substantial divergence of the values, opinions and convictions of the electorates of right-wing and left-wing populism and the persistence of a strong ideological and cultural borders between the radical left and the far right, despite the abandonment by both Le Pen and Mélenchon of the right-left cleavage as a relevant grid of analysis. The in-depth analysis of the composition of Mélenchon's and Le Pen's electorates, based on empirical data, absolutely refutes the hypothesis of an electoral or ideological porosity between the French right-wing and left-wing populisms. Despite some similarities (high results in the working classes, among the low income and education voters), the two candidates seduced different segments of the anti-system voters, in terms of values, electoral backgrounds and socio-economic living conditions. The overrepresentation of the lower social categories, of the youth, of the losers of globalisation in both right-wing and left-wing populism is a sign that these social groups are moving away from the traditional ruling parties and opting for more radical platforms and candidates. However this polarization is occurring within a political field divided by cultural and ideological cleavages and dividing lines, and therefore political and electoral mobility is shaped by these structural socio-political determinants. The focus on the first round of the presidential election gives a general significance to this conclusion as the first round is characterized by the lowest levels of abstention and the longest lasting and best followed political campaigns, in addition to the representation of every major political tendency by the various candidates. However the results of the second round confirm some aspects of our analysis: the electoral transfers in the second round shows the inaccuracy of the idea of an electoral porosity between right-wing and left-wing populism: only 7% of Mélenchon's voters voted Le Pen in the second round while 52% voted for Macron (the remainders abstained). By comparison, 20% of Fillon's voters chose Le Pen in the second round; the electoral transfer (in terms of share of the first round voters) from Mélenchon to Le Pen is among the smallest. The progression of Le Pen and Mélenchon between 2012 and 2017 is the result of a campaign's political strategy that can be characterized as populist in Laclau's sense. The narratives used by the two candidates to create a chain of equivalences and gather divergent social demands were successful; however the composition of their electorates is surprisingly different, disconcerting the traditional political commentators or editorial writers who mobilized the simplistic explanation of the two converging populisms. The values, electoral behaviours, opinions and socio-economic status of the two electorates diverge, even though they share similar superficial anti-system characteristics. Both sides expanded their electorate through the attraction of former voters and non-voters but also through the attraction of disillusioned voters from the right and the left: Mélenchon succeeded in gathering large segments of the PS and Green electorate (and in capturing the far-left vote) while Le Pen attracted former Sarkozy's voters. The absence of ideological convergences and the non-existence (at least in the 2017 electoral cycle) of electoral transfers from left-wing populism to right-wing populism should lead the radical left as a whole to reconsider its attempts to convince and attract the core of the Front National's electorate. The watertightness of the ideological and electoral frontier between the two blocs makes electoral transfers very hypothetic and uncertain, whereas their political cost will certainly be very great. With regard to the strong anchoring of Mélenchon's electorate in left and even radical left values, beliefs and identities, it seems obvious that such a constituency will not tolerate any downward sliding or ambiguities that will try to attract FN voters by making concessions to their rhetoric. In the confrontation with the far-right, what is really at stake is the ability of left-wing populism to mobilise and organise the electoral deployment of its own social and electoral base at a larger scale than the FN or Macron. This article was first published by transform! Europe on 21 February 2018. (1) The most disrupting of them is the accession of Jean-Marie Le Pen to the second round of the 2002 presidential election, ousting the candidate of the PS (2) Macron gathered more than 66% of the votes, a result unequalled since 2002 and the victory of Chirac against Jean-Marie Le Pen, with 82% (3) 350 candidates supporting Macron's policy were elected as members of Parliament, among which 313 are members of La République En Marche's group, the rest is composed of allied groups which art part of the governing coalition (4) Besse-Desmoulières, Raphaëlle & Mestre, Abel, Mélenchon - Le Pen, le match des populismes, Le Monde, 7 février 2012, http://abonnes.lemonde.fr/a-la-une/article/2012/02/07/melenchon-le-pen-le-match-des-populismes_1639903_3208.html (5) Mudde, Cas, The problem with populism, The Guardian, February 2015, https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/feb/17/problem-populism-syriza-podemos-dark-side-europe (6) Mudde, Cas, The Populist Zeitgeist, Government and Opposition, Vol. 39, 2004 (7) Kriesi Hanspeter, Pappas Takis, European Populism in the Shadow of the Great Recession, ECPR Press, 2015 (8) Bröning, Michael, The Rise of Populism in Europe. Can the Center Hold? Foreign Affairs, June, 2016, https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/europe/2016-06-03/rise-populism-europe (9) Mélenchon gathered 19.58% which is the highest result for a radical left candidate since 1969 and Le Pen realized the highest result ever of the FN. In addition, the gap between Macron (who arrived first) and Mélenchon who arrived fourth is extremely close (less than 5 points of percentage) (10) Laclau, Ernesto, On Populist Reason, Verso, 2007 (11) Ifop et Fiducial, Le profil des électeurs et les clefs du premier tour de l’élection présidentielle, 23 avril 2017 (12) IPSOS et Sopria, 1er tour de la présidentielle de 2017 : Comprendre le vote des Français, 19-22 avril 2017 (13) Ifop, ibid (14) Viavoice, Après le premier tour, 26 avril 2017 (18) Rouban, Luc, Le peuple qui vote Mélenchon est-il le peuple ? The Conversation, Octobre 2017, https://theconversation.com/le-peuple-qui-vote-melenchon-est-il-le-peuple-84724 (20) Gurr, Ted, Why Men Rebel, Princeton University Press, 1970 (21) Luis, Ramiro, Support for Radical Left Parties in Western Europe: Social Background, Ideology and Political Orientation, European Political Science Review, 2016 (22) IPSOS, ibid (23) Fourquet, Jérôme, Karim vote à gauche et son voisin vote FN. Sociologie électorale de l'« immigration, éditions de l'Aube/Fondation Jean-Jaurès, janvier 2016 (25) Léger, Jean-François, Le chômage, terreau du vote Front national ?, Population & Avenir, 2015 (27) Mauger Gérard, Pelletier Willy, Les classes populaires et le FN, Editions du Croquant, 2017 (28) Mayer, Nonna, Ces français qui votent Le Pen, Flammarion, 2002 (29) Viavoice, ibid (30) Harris Interactive, Le 1er tour de l’élection présidentielle 2017. Composition des différents électorats, motivations et éléments de structuration du vote, 23 avril 2017 (33) This concept was elaborated by the political scientist Pascal Perrineau in order to describe the attraction, by the FN since the 1980s, of the votes of workers who previously voted for the left. This shift would be the consequence of the economic crisis and the neoliberal turn of the policies implemented by the PS. (34) Perrineau, Pascal, La France au Front : essai sur l'avenir du Front National, Fayard, 2014; Perrineau, Pascal, La dynamique du vote Le Pen : le poids du "gaucholepénisme", dans Perrineau Pascal et Ysmal Colette (dir.), Le Vote de crise : l’élection présidentielle de 1995, Paris, Presses de Sciences Po, 1995 (35) Perrineau, Pascal, La dynamique du vote Le Pen : le poids du "gaucholepénisme", dans Perrineau Pascal et Ysmal Colette (dir.), Le Vote de crise : l’élection présidentielle de 1995, Paris, Presses de Sciences Po, 1995 (36) Gougou, Florent, Les ouvriers et le vote Front National. Les logiques d’un réalignement électoral, in in Crépon Sylvain, Dézé Alexandre et Mayer Nonna, Les Faux-Semblants du Front National. Sociologie d’un parti politique, Presses de Sciences Po, 2015 (37) Gougou, Florent & Mayer, Nonna, The class basis of extreme right voting in France: generational replacement and the rise of new cultural issues (1984-2007) In Class Politics and the Radical Right, Routledge, 2012 (38) Bischoff Joachim, Gauthier Elisabeth, Müller Bernhard, Droites Populistes en Europe : les raisons d’un succès, Editions du Croquant, 2015 (40) Laclau, ibid (41) Finchelstein Gilles, Teinturier Brice, Entre France Insoumise et Front National, de solides divergences, Fondation Jean-Jaurès, juillet 2017 (42) Ifop, Le vote des électorats confessionnels au 1er tour de l’élection présidentielle, 23 avril 2017 democracy, Europe, populism	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1519
__label__wiki	0.991257	0.991257	Thailand puts 17 provinces under emergency decree The order gives the army broad powers to deal with protesters and restricts civil liberties. Check out this article! https://www.salon.com/2010/05/13/as_thailand_politics_3/ May 13, 2010 10:35PM (UTC) The Thai government has extended a state of emergency to cover 17 provinces to prevent rural protesters from joining a massive anti-government rally in the capital. Thursday's measure added 15 new provinces to an emergency decree that had already applied to Bangkok and another nearby province. The decree gives the army broad powers to deal with protesters and places restrictions on civil liberties. Government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn says the expanded emergency decree is intended to prevent "masses of people trying to come to Bangkok." THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below. BANGKOK (AP) -- A renegade army general accused of leading a paramilitary force among Thailand's Red Shirt protesters was shot in the head Thursday as he spoke with foreign reporters on a street near a downtown Bangkok subway station. A second person was shot in the head by soldiers in ensuing clashes that continued in the night, an Associated Press cameraman saw. At least three other people were injured. Maj. Gen. Khattiya Sawasdiphol was shot following a government warning it would shoot "terrorists" in its latest effort to end the two-month-long siege by thousands of Red Shirts. He is currently in hospital intensive care. The protesters, mostly rural poor, are occupying a 1-square-mile (3-square-kilometer) area in a posh neighborhood to pressure the prime minister to resign and call elections. Dressed in military-style fatigues, Khattiya was being interviewed outside the Silom subway station at the edge of the protest zone when a bullet struck him in the head. The area is surrounded by tall office buildings, leading to suspicions the shot was fired by a sniper. Khattiya, known by his nickname Seh Daeng, slumped to the ground and one person cradled his head for a while. Moments later, other people dragged him by the legs, his head sliding on the ground, leaving a trail of blood. In an interview with the AP about 90 minutes before he was shot, Khattiya, 59, said he anticipated a military crackdown soon. "It's either dusk or dawn when the troops will go in," he said. He was shot soon after night fell. An aide who answered Khattiya's mobile phone described the injury as "severe." The AP called Khattiya's phone after several gunshots and explosions were heard late Thursday from the vicinity of the Red Shirt's redoubt in the upscale Rajprasong district. The government's medical emergency center confirmed that Khattiya was shot in the head and admitted to the intensive care unit at a hospital. It said three people were injured, saying they couldn't confirm Thai media reports of more than 20 injuries. It was not possible to verify the aide's claim that Khattiya was shot by a sniper. Calls to police and army spokesmen seeking comment were not answered. Later in the evening, small clashes broke out between protesters and soldiers. At one point, hundreds of protesters threw rocks and firecrackers at the group of soldiers, and the soldiers responded with gunfire, AP cameraman Raul Gallego said. He said one man was shot in the head. Soldiers opened fire again after an ambulance took away the man. His condition was not immediately clear. The Red Shirts are demanding an immediate dissolution of Parliament. They believe Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's coalition government came to power illegitimately through manipulation of the courts and the backing of the powerful military. Tens of thousands of them streamed into the capital on March 12 and occupied an area in the historic district of Bangkok. An army attempt to clear them on April 10 led to clashes that killed 25 people and wounded more than 800. Another four people were killed in related clashes in the following weeks. Thursday's shooting will only deepen fears of more bloodshed. Khattiya is a renegade army major general whom the government has labeled a "terrorist" and a mastermind behind some of the violence. He bitterly opposed reconciling with the government and had recently become critical of Red Shirt leaders, some of whom had wanted to accept a government proposal to end Thailand's political crisis. The firing came after the government said it will impose a military lockdown on the Rajprasong area to evict the protesters. Khattiya, who helped construct the Red Shirt barricades of sharpened bamboo stakes and tires around the protest area, was accused of creating a paramilitary force among the anti-government protesters and had vowed to battle against the army if it should launch a crackdown. In the AP interview, he accused Red Shirt leaders of taking government bribes to accept Abhisit's reconciliation plan to hold elections on Nov. 14. However, the plan was abandoned after the Red Shirts made new demands and refused to leave. "The prime minister and the Red Shirts were on the verge of striking a deal but then I came in. Suddenly, I became an important person," he said. "This time, the people's army will fight the army. There is no need to teach the people how to fight. There are no forms or plan of attack. You let them fight with their own strategies," he said. Khattiya was suspended from the army in January and became a fugitive from justice last month when an arrest warrant was issued against him and two dozen others linked to the Red Shirts for their purported roles in the violence. Yet he has wandered freely through the protest zone, signing autographs just yards (meters) from security forces keeping watch over the protesters. Earlier Thursday, an army spokesman, Col. Sansern Kaewkamnerd, said security forces were preparing to impose a lockdown on the protest area where the Red Shirts have barricaded themselves in a posh area of shopping malls, hotels and upscale apartments. Sansern said armored personnel carriers and snipers will surround the area. Power, public transport and mobile phone service in the area was also suspended. Sansern said troops will use rubber bullets first but will not hesitate to use live ammunition in self-defense if attacked. "In addition, another unit of ... sharpshooters will be on the lookout and will shoot terrorists who carry weapons," he said. The Red Shirts see Abhisit's government as serving an elite insensitive to the plight of most Thais. The protesters include many supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a populist leader accused of corruption and abuse of power and ousted in a 2006 military coup. Thaksin, a former telecommunications billionaire who fled overseas to avoid a corruption conviction, is widely believed to be helping to bankroll the protests. He claims to be a victim of political persecution. Associated Press writers Jocelyn Gecker, Vijay Joshi and Grant Peck contributed to this report, with additional research by Warangkana Tempati. MORE FROM Associated Press Are you watching "Love Island"? Dapper Dan: Fashion as liberation How Russia manipulated Twitter in 2016	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1521
__label__wiki	0.946736	0.946736	World Cup: 2026 World Cup is awarded to North America FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivers a speech at the FIFA congress on June 13 in Moscow. (Alexander Zemlianichenko / Associated Press) By Kevin BaxterStaff Writer Reporting from MOSCOW — In the end, the marathon process of bringing the World Cup back to North America was decided with a sprint. After more than a year of little success in selling FIFA on the idea, soccer federation leaders from the United States, Mexico and Canada made one final, furious push, visiting more than 50 countries and lobbying more than 150 federations in the last five weeks. The effort proved worthwhile Wednesday when world soccer’s governing body chose the so-called United bid to host the 2026 World Cup. “I don’t think that we ever thought that we would have such overwhelming support,” said Steven Reed, president of the Canadian Soccer Assn. “It just shows the amount of work that we did over the past six to eight weeks has come to fruition. “ The North American bid was chosen over Morocco with the backing of 134 of the 199 countries that voted, winning support from members of all six FIFA confederations. Even teams from Africa, which had promised to vote in a bloc for Morocco, supported the United bid, turning what was expected to be a tight race into a rout. The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, expanding to 48 teams and 80 games — 60 of which will be played in the U.S. Canada and Mexico will get 10 each. It will also be the first World Cup hosted by three countries. Los Angeles is one of 23 proposed host cities — a list that will eventually be trimmed to 16 — and the Rose Bowl in Pasadena is among the stadiums under consideration as a game site. The NFL facility under construction in Inglewood could also be used, possibly for the tournament final. In its presentation to FIFA, the United bid committee listed three possible venues for the title game: MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.; AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas; and Los Angeles. The Rose Bowl was the site of the title game in 1994, the only time a World Cup was played in the U.S. The United bid committee’s chairmen — Reed, U.S. Soccer president Carlos Cordeiro and Mexican federation president Decio de Maria — pulled their winning proposal together at a time of political strain between the countries they represent. “To have a message coming from football that says actually Mexico, Canada and the United States together can organize the biggest sporting and social event together, it is a nice message,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said. To make the lobbying effort work, the North American representatives set up a base camp in London, which allowed them to reach more countries quickly, without dealing with jet lag, botched flight connections or other complications. The move had other benefits as well. “The team bonded really well,” said Cordeiro, who became visibly emotional when the results were announced. “We basically lived and traveled like an extended family.” Contrast that with President Trump’s relationships with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Even before he was elected, Trump had promised to build a wall along the Mexican border and demanded that NAFTA, the trade agreement linking the U.S., Mexico and Canada, be renegotiated. Last week, following the G-7 summit, Trump tweeted that Trudeau was “dishonest” and “weak.” After his election as president of U.S. Soccer in February, Cordeiro chose to elevate De Maria and Reed as co-chairmen of the bid, a move that gave each of the three equal power. “We changed the whole face of the bid,” said Cordeiro, who thought the campaign was in danger at the time. “The fact that we had three co-chairs has been received very, very well. On an initiative such as this we have to work together.” Reed, Cordeiro and De Maria played up that their countries already had the stadiums and infrastructure in place to host a major event. They also projected a record profit of $14 billion, money that would be split among FIFA’s 211 member federations, bringing each about $50 million to spend on grass-roots development. Morocco, which has never staged an event larger than the 16-team African Nations Championship, said it would build nine of the 14 venues included in its bid, with the other five needing substantial renovations. The total investment was projected to be $15.8 billion. However, the United bid had one significant obstacle: Some federations expressed grave concerns about Trump’s rhetoric and politics, including proposed travel restrictions. That’s when Robert Kraft, owner of the NFL’s New England Patriot and the MLS’ New England Revolution, stepped in. A friend of Trump’s, and also the honorary chairman of the United bid committee’s board, Kraft got the president to address three letters to Infantino. In each, he guaranteed, among other promises, that no foreign teams, officials or fans would face restrictions on entering the U.S. for the World Cup. Those assurances proved vital in winning over wary voters. And Trump was among the first people to offer congratulations, tweeting: “The U.S., together with Mexico and Canada, just got the World Cup. Congratulations — a great deal of hard work!” Peña Nieto also reacted on Twitter, releasing a video in which he said, “It is not only our people and our families, our companies and our businesspeople, soccer also knows that Canada, the United States and Mexico are deeply united.” Trudeau struck a similar note: “It’s an opportunity to bring the world together and highlight how well things work between Canada, Mexico and the United States,” he told reporters in Ottawa. For Cordeiro, who came to the U.S. at 15 as an immigrant of Indian, Colombia and Portuguese heritage, the success reinforced his belief that working together is easier than working alone. “We’ve been making the case now for multiple weeks that this shouldn’t be about geopolitics. This isn’t the U.N.,” Cordeiro said. “People listened and heard the message.” Full coverage: 2018 World Cup » kevin.baxter@latimes.com \| Twitter: @kbaxter11 2:55 p.m.: This article was updated throughout with comments from soccer officials and background on how the United bid came together. This article was originally published at 3:55 a.m. Kevin Baxter What’s next for the U.S. women’s team after its World Cup win? The games are over and the celebration has just begun for the newly crowned Women’s World Cup champions. Megan Rapinoe took center stage and owned it at Women’s World Cup Megan Rapinoe came to France a month ago as a pretty good soccer player. U.S. fulfills its promise with emotional triumph in Women’s World Cup They ran roughshod over the best field in history, winning seven times in seven tries. Women’s World Cup final: U.S. defeats Netherlands to win another title Megan Rapinoe, who wasn’t expected to start Sunday’s Women’s World Cup final because of a hamstring issue, wound up winning it instead, calmly slotting home a penalty kick in the 61st minute to start the U.S. on its way a 2-0 win over a stubborn team from the Netherlands before a sellout crowd at Stade de Lyon. More on the Subject A look at what’s happening around the majors today: PULLING TOGETHER The grieving Angels go for their sixth consecutive victory since the All-Star break when they host Houston again. Kyle Schwarber wasn’t thinking home run when he stepped to the plate in the bottom of the 10th inning Tuesday night. Padres rookie Chris Paddack has ‘extra energy’ for start vs. Marlins Chris Paddack holds no ill will for Marlins, who drafted him and ‘got rid of’ him Manny Machado’s place on Padres beyond imitation Teammates surprise Manny Machado, show him how much they enjoy what he brings to Padres International soccer fills Balboa Cup San Diego, Tijuana high school athletes building bridges Seattle’s NHL expansion team is close to an agreement with Hockey Hall of Famer Ron Francis to become its first general manager, a person with direct knowledge tells The Associated Press. Didi Gregorius went up a few weight classes to restrain CC Sabathia, then climbed up the ladder for a slump-busting grand slam. Benches cleared but no punches were thrown following a shouting match between Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia and Tampa Bay Rays hitter Avisaíl García during New York’s 8-3 victory Tuesday night. Hollendorfer, trainers group file court complaint against Del Mar Complaint by Hall of Fame trainer contends Del Mar Racetrack has not provided him with hearing over denial of stalls for meeting that begins Wednesday. Your Opinions: Is banning horse racing really in the interest of horses? To ban horse racing would be to deprive all of the horses from being born. 4 San Diego companies that grew billions (and billions) while you weren’t looking These public companies have more than quadrupled their valuations in a matter of years. Twilight fan hit by car and killed at Comic-Con Padres head to L.A. after sweep by Giants Giants come back with strange four-run sixth inning, hand Padres their fourth straight loss ahead of Dodgers series	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1522
__label__wiki	0.872953	0.872953	69.0°, A FEW CLOUDS Forecast James Clark, a former infantry squad leader for the 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment in the U.S. Army, an avid motorcycle rider, gets onto his bike. Clark will be will be one of five wounded veterans in New England who will be honored during the 6th annual Boston Wounded Vets Run that will be today, Saturday, May 14, 2016. Clark lost his left leg in Afghanistan, when his vehicle, a Stryker, went over an Improvised Explosive Device in October 2009. The money raised will help him get a new Harley-Davidson. Photos of the Stryker that James Clark, a former infantry squad leader for the 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment in the U.S. Army, was in after it went over an Improvised Explosive Device in Afghanistan on October 2009. James Clark, a former infantry squad leader for the 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment in the U.S. Army, puts on his prosthetic leg on Thursday, May 12, 2016. Clark will be will be one of five wounded veterans in New England who will be honored during the 6th annual Boston Wounded Vets Run that will be held today, Saturday, May 14. Clark lost his left leg in Afghanistan, when his vehicle, a Stryker, went over an Improvised Explosive Device in October 2009. James Clark, a former infantry squad leader for the 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment in the U.S. Army, goes through photos of the Stryker he was riding in when an IED exploded beneath it in October 2009. The spot where the Stryker that James Clark was riding in went over an Improvised Explosive Device in Afghanistan on October 2009. Hinsdale disabled veteran to be recognized in Boston Posted Friday, May 13, 2016 4:02 pm By Maddi Shaw mshaw@reformer.com @MadelineShaw2 on Twitter HINSDALE, N.H. &GT;&GT; With only one leg, one local veteran continues to ride his motorcycle, and now he is upgrading to a Harley-Davidson thanks to one philanthropic event. It was another day on the job in October of 2009 when James Clark, 25 at the time, was traveling in an eight-wheeled armored fighting vehicle — a Stryker — through Afghanistan. The vehicle was moving along a dried-up river bed when the pressure of the Stryker triggered an IED that had been planted beneath the ground. Within moments following the explosion, which Clark cannot fully recollect, though he was in shock he twisted a clamp around what was left of his left leg in an attempt to stop the bleeding. He controlled his breathing and waited for a helicopter to airlift him to the hospital on base. The following moments were a blur for Clark: The doctors induced a coma and two weeks later his leg was amputated from the knee down. The hospital was home to Clark for about one month. At the time of his injury, Clark was a husband and father to two, Izeyah, 9, and Samarra, 10. His family and parents supported him while he was in the hospital in Washinton, D.C. Before the explosion, he had served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman from 2003 to 2011. He earned a Purple Heart and a Combat Infantry Badge. "It was long and frustrating to go from a squad leader in Afghanistan to bound to a wheel chair over night, it was pretty much a shock," said Clark. For two years, he regained his strength through physical therapy for two to three hours Monday through Friday. That was where he learned how to walk with a prosthetic leg, which he now wears as soon as he wakes up until he lays his head down for bed. He also had occupational therapy where he relearned how to perform everyday tasks, such as preparing a meal and solving puzzles. Clark said it was because of his mother's support that he was able to move forward through the traumatic experience. Once he regained a great deal of his physical, emotional and mental strength he had another son, Brendyn, who is now 4 years old, and remarried his high school sweetheart, Amy. Today he will be an honoree at this year's 6th annual Boston Wounded Veterans Ride where motorcyclists will ride 25 miles throughout the North Shore, ending at Suffolk Downs in East Boston in order to raise money for this year's six local, severely wounded veterans. This year's honorees are Sgt. Kirstie Ennis, SSgt. Clark, Sgt. Peter Damon, SPC Sean Pesce and Sgt. Eric Rodriguez. The proceeds raised go towards housing modifications, recreational objects, cars, basic living items, and other things that help improve the quality of life for a wounded war hero. Clark decided he would be using his share for a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle. "I want to be able to ... I love to ride, that's kind of my ... that's how I take a time out," said Clark. "I used to ride a lot when I was younger and kind of stopped when I got hurt, but then I tried it again a couple years ago and I got the hang of it." Clark said it seemed like a "no brainer" to request a Harley as he is not only an avid bike enthusiast, but generally enjoys an active lifestyle. "I've always been active. When I was hurt, I was 25 years old and there was no way I was going to be a vegetable, it wasn't really an option. I have to maintain ability and mobility in order to maintain sanity," Clark said. Aside from riding his bike, he enjoys snowmobiling in the winter and walking through the woods or spending time in his yard. This honor highlights Clark's service, but also allows him to ride a Hog. "All of the people who organize this event don't get a paycheck for that; it's all volunteer. I think it's amazing," said Clark. "It says there's a lot of people out there that recognize a lot of sacrifice that people have made, it just shows a great deal of appreciation by a lot of people." Clark was nominated by someone he grew up with and who regularly attends the annual event. Andrew Biggio, founder of the Boston Wounded Veteran Ride, said at the event's inception he would select veterans from New England that he found while searching through the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Now, Biggio accepts nominations from anyone for amputee veterans within New England and then holds a charity bike ride in honor of them. Clark will be the first New Hampshire resident honored through this event. "It's important to me because many of us came home from Afghanistan and Iraq unscathed, but these guys have to wake up every day with those wounds," said Biggio. "It's important to honor those who did sacrifice their limbs for this country." Biggio spoke with all of the honorees about what their needs are and then arranged to make their "wishes" come true. Saturday morning Clark will receive a customized, modified 2017 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The clutch was switched over and the brakes were changed to make it accessible for Clark and his prosthetic leg. The bike was also custom painted with his Army veteran logo, the Second Infantry Division logo. In addition, his wife will receive a 2017 Ford Fusion. This year, Biggio expects that 7,000 people will attend the event, as they have had thousands attend in previous years, rain or shine. For those who would like to join the event, it cost $20 to participate, passengers are $10 and registration begins at 8:30 a.m. "I'd encourage people to show up because we want to give these wounded veterans the best welcome home they could ever think of," said Biggio. According to Biggio, everyone that makes this event possible is unpaid, and he says there are approximately 100 volunteers for this year's event. Boston's Annual Wounded Vet Bike Run was inspired by Cpl. Vincent Mannion Brodeur and began in 2011. Brodeur is the recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. While serving in Iraq in 2007 with the 82nd Airborne he was critically injured by an insurgent's improvised explosive device and later endured 40 operations and a year-long coma. The bike run that was in honor of Brodeur raised money to provide him with a handicapped accessible living space. Ever since, the event has been dedicated to different veterans. Since the Boston Wounded Veteran Bike Run's inception, more than $500,000 has been raised to support New England wounded veterans who have suffered traumatic injuries while serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. Each honoree requires different assistance, proceeds are used to better the quality of life for the veterans whether it be housing modifications, basic living needs, cars, recreational needs and more. Some of the regular struggles that Clark faces are around being comfortable, such as finding the right fit for his prosthetic and experiencing phantom pains and some skin irritation. Overall, despite some discomfort, Clark has a positive outlook. "There are more good days than bad, there are always going to be issues, but now there are more good days than bad," Clark said. He will attend his first Boston Wounded Veteran Bike Run today. "I'd like to thank Andrew and all the volunteers that put all the work into doing this vet ride every year," said Clark. Maddi Shaw can be reached at 802-254-2311 ext 275	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1526
__label__wiki	0.783134	0.783134	Smithsonian’s John Marshall Film Collection Added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register The John Marshall Ju/’hoan Bushman Film and Video Collection, 1950 – 2000, held in the Human Studies Film Archives at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, has been added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s Memory of the World Register. John Kennedy Marshall (1932 – 2005) was an American anthropologist and acclaimed documentary filmmaker. The Marshall collection was one of 35 items chosen for its exceptional value as part of world documentary heritage. This designation places it within the esteemed company of the diary of Anne Frank, the Magna Carta and the League of Nations Archives. The collection is only the fourth documentary property held in a U.S. archive or library to be added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. In October, the museum will launch a Web site dedicated to the John Marshall Ju/’hoan Bushman Film and Video Collection. Considered one of the seminal visual anthropology projects of the 20th century, Marshall’s collection provides a unique example of sustained audiovisual documentation of one cultural group, the Ju/’hoansi of the Kalahari Desert in northeastern Namibia, spanning half a century. It is an unparalleled historical record not only of an indigenous people’s traditional way of life and ties to the land but of the transformation of their life in the rapidly changing political and economic landscape that developed in concert with the struggle for Namibian independence. “The career of John Kennedy Marshall spanned a remarkable 50-plus years during which he became an innovator in the technical production of films as well as a leading voice in the ethics of ethnographic filmmaking,” said Jake Homiak, director of the museum’s Anthropology Collections and Archives Program. “During his lifelong association with the Ju/’hoansi (Bushmen) he became an advocate for those he documented, using his films as tools for education and empowerment.” The Marshall collection contains 767 hours of unedited film and video footage, as well as edited films and videos (both published and unpublished), audio tapes, still photographs, maps, study guides for edited films, published and unpublished writing by Marshall and others and production files that include letters, shot logs, translations, transcriptions, editing logs, treatments and proposals spanning from 1950 to 2000. The collection also includes several books and numerous journal articles that have been written about Marshall’s films and methods. The museum’s Human Studies Film Archives, founded in 1975, is an internationally recognized center devoted to collecting, preserving and disseminating a broad range of moving-image materials documenting past and present world cultures. The archives promotes the importance of moving-image materials as an integral part of the anthropological record, and the collections and resources support research on specific cultures, the development of ethnographic film and the broad study of visual culture. The archives’ holdings consist of more than 8 million feet of film and 1,000 hours of video material in all major moving-image analog and digital formats and more than 250,000 still photographs associated with the collections. The archives also collects a wide variety of supplementary material pertaining to its holdings, including audio recordings, field notes, translations, shot logs, lecture notes, scripts, promotional materials and voice-over annotations. More details about the museum’s Marshall collection may be found at http://www.nmnh.si.edu/naa/fa/marshall.pdf. Marshall’s edited films are distributed by Documentary Educational Resources and may be found at http://www.der.org/films/king-series.html. UNESCO’s Web site, http://unesco.org, contains additional information about the Memory of the World Register and a full list of inscriptions for 2009. Michele Urie uriem@si.edu	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1532
__label__wiki	0.620742	0.620742	What is going on with WHOIS? “WHOIS” is a database administered by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). It contains data such as who owns and operates a domain name and how to contact them. There has been much public chatter about WHOIS recently thanks to Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which is slated to take effect on May 25, 2018. GDPR has heightened standards for what personal information may be made publically available online meaning that some of the data in WHOIS will likely run afoul of the new regulation. This, therefore, both necessitates and provides an opportunity to reevaluate the disclosure and use of WHOIS data. ICANN President and CEO, Göran Marb recently laid out three models for how to change WHOIS in order to bring it into compliance with GDPR. “Model 1” would apply only in the European Economic Area (EEA) — the area affected by GDPR. This model would withhold personal information from the public but allow access to anyone who self-certifies they have a legitimate interest in the data. This model is only a modest change from a completely publically available WHOIS since there is no verification mechanism to see if a party’s interest is indeed legitimate. For this reason, it is questionable whether Model 1 is GDPR compliant. “Model 2” has received significantly more interest. It would create a layered system in which most data are non-public, but certain, predefined groups would be able to gain more access after a formal accreditation process. This proposed model has two variations: 2A, in which the new process applies only to the EEA, and 2B, which applies to the whole WHOIS system. A Model 2 approach seems to be akin to ICANN’s ongoing efforts to replace WHOIS altogether with Next-Generation Generic Top-Level Domain Registration Directory Services (RDS) which will likely extend some kind of layered access to classes of certified users. The main drawback of implementing this model now is the clock: there is not enough time to thoughtfully complete and implement a fully developed and layered approach by the time GDPR takes effect in May. That brings us to “Model 3,” which makes most data non-public and does not release it to anyone except to comply with a court order. This model most clearly complies with GDPR by closely tying access to the purpose of WHOIS. It would still allow the intended functions of WHOIS as a repository of data necessary for administrative functions, without making those data publicly available. Domain registrars need to be able to keep track of transfers of domain names and back up ownership records, but the registrars can do their jobs even if the data are not available to the public. Other interested parties, such as law enforcement, may want access to the data, but their goals must be considered separately from the purpose of WHOIS itself. Additionally, they would still be able to access the data if they get a court order. This model is supported by groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the Internet Governance Project. As a long term solution, Model 2B, in the form of a new RDS, is preferable as it will account for the legitimate interests of all parties without publicly disclosing everything to everyone. 2B is preferable to its model 2 counterpart because it to provides a uniform, international standard rather than carving up domain name policy along political borders. We also should not rush the process; a slapdash layered approach to WHOIS would likely create more problems than it solves. Therefore, in the meantime, ICANN should work diligently to complete the new RDS and adopt Model 3 as a stopgap measure in order to comply with GDPR. The intersection of WHOIS and GDPR highlights the ways in which Internet governance is increasingly bumping into traditional regulation by nation-states. If it ever was, the Internet is no longer a domain outside the reach of governments. It is still a global ecosystem, but, as in this case, global policy can be swayed by regulations in a particular region. Maintaining the legitimacy of private Internet governance rather than government intervention is likely to become an increasingly difficult but important struggle.	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1535
__label__cc	0.646461	0.353539	ICYMI: Rubio Tells O'Reilly That Defunding ObamaCare Is Only Option Left Rubio: “I would much rather the President come down from his prideful position and basically say, ‘Look the law is messed up.’ But he’s not going to do that obviously, and so this is the only option.” Excerpts from Interview on FOX News’ “The O’Reilly Factor” Senator Marco Rubio http://youtu.be/75CtS1Vpm_c “This is the only chance and the last chance that we have. And the one thing that does bother me is that there [are] people in Washington that love to say, ‘We’re against ObamaCare.’ How can you be against ObamaCare, but vote for a budget that funds its implementation when you know the harm that it’s going to do? Now I would much rather the President come down from his prideful position and basically say, ‘Look the law is messed up.’ But he’s not going to do that obviously, and so this is the only option. This is a fundamental issue. This is not a disagreement about some small piece of legislation. This affects a sixth of the U.S. economy. “The President now says he’s focused on the middle class. Well, one of the most important things we can do to help the middle class in America right now is defund and get rid of ObamaCare, because the impact it’s going to have on millions of Americans who have health insurance and are happy with it, is going to be dramatic and painful. We can’t let that happen.”	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1536
__label__wiki	0.791482	0.791482	SADC Executive Secretary H.E Dr.Tax pays a courtesy call on Minister of International Affairs & Cooperation Hon. Dr. Unity Dow The SADC Executive Secretary Her Excellency, Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax paid a courtesy call on the newly appointed Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation for the Republic of Botswana, Honourable Dr. Unity Dow on 6th August 2018. The Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation serves as the focal point for the Organ on Politics Defence and Security Cooperation for the Republic of Botswana. Her Excellency Dr. Tax informed the Minister that the SADC region remains stable and peaceful, while efforts continue to support the Kingdom of Lesotho, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Madagascar, to return to political normalcy. The SADC Executive Secretary also updated the Minister on the Harmonised Elections in the Republic of Zimbabwe, and the upcoming elections in the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Madagascar, which the SADC region will be expected to deploy SADC Electoral Observation Missions to observe. The SADC Executive Secretary briefed the Minister on the upcoming Council and 38th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, to be held from 9th to 18th August 2018, in Windhoek, the Republic of Namibia, under the theme “Promoting Infrastructure and Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development”. She highlighted thatthe meeting will, among others, receive progress reports on the implementation of the SADC agenda and previous Council and Summit decisions, as well as, on the political and security situation in the region. The Minister thanked Dr. Tax for her visit and recognised the good work the Secretariat is doing in facilitating implementation of SADC programmes and activities, with a view to achieving regional integration. The two parties agreed to meet at a later stage for a comprehensive brief on Organ issues. Tweet This Article!	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1538
__label__wiki	0.672531	0.672531	Electromagnetic Radiation Safety: 2018 Year in Review December 30, 2018 (Updated January 3, 2019) Project Censored (PC) selected “How Big Wireless Convinced Us Cell Phones and Wi-Fi are Safe" as one of the ten most under-reported stories of the past year. The PC story featured a new study of miscarriage in pregnant women and a special investigation conducted for The Nation and The Guardian which examined how news about wireless health risks has been censored by the media due to industry influence. PC is a media research initiative that champions the importance of a free press for democratic self-government. Environmental Factor, the award-winning newsletter of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, reported: "In a milestone year for the Environmental Factor, a look at the top 20 stories reveals coverage of draft and final cell phone studies dominated reader interest .... Coverage of the National Toxicology Program’s studies on cell phone radio frequency radiation accounted for 29 percent of pageviews to monthly issues in 2018.... We would not be surprised if the November story on the final NTP cell phone radio frequency radiation studies appears on the 2019 top stories list." This year the U.S. government rolled back many regulatory environmental protections and paved the way for industry to intensify its exploitation of the environment at the expense of planetary health. The telecom and wireless industries have benefited from the government's abdication of responsibility to protect the public's health. State and federal governments have conflicts of interest -- on average, 19% of your cell phone bill is devoted to taxes and fees in addition to the taxes that corporations pay. With the conclusion of two major studies this year, we now have “clear evidence” that cell phone radiation exposure can cause cancer based upon research conducted by the National Toxicology Program in the U.S. and the Ramazzini Institute in Italy. Many scientists believe that this research constitutes the “missing link” needed for the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer to declare wireless radiation a human carcinogen (i.e., Group 1). Researchers at Yale University and the Connecticut Health Department published the first case-control study examining the association between cell phone use and thyroid cancer. The researchers found elevated risks of thyroid cancer among heavier, long-term cell phone users. This research may help explain why thyroid cancer is the fastest growing cancer in the U.S. Incidence has nearly tripled since the 1980’s from four per 100,000 in 1980 to fifteen per 100,000 in 2014. By year end, 247 scientists from 42 nations who have published over 2,000 papers in professional journals on electromagnetic fields and biology or health signed the International EMF Scientist Appeal. The consensus of these experts, based upon the preponderance of peer-reviewed research, is that cell phone and wireless radiation exposure increases the risk of reproductive harm, neurological disorders, and cancer. They are demanding health warnings and stronger regulation of magnetic fields and radio frequency radiation. Yet health agencies (e.g., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization) and quasi-official groups (e.g., the U.S. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection) continue to dismiss the preponderance of research which finds that cell phone and wireless radiation causes bioeffects and health effects. In January, Physicians for Safe Technology launched its website which documents the health risks from wireless radiation exposure. In April, the International Society of Doctors for the Environment and its member organizations in 27 countries, adopted a declaration calling for a moratorium on the deployment of the fifth generation of cellular technology, known as 5G. Following the tobacco industry playbook, the CTIA, the wireless industry trade association, launched an advertising campaign, "The Global Race to 5G," which claims that the U.S. could reap massive economic benefits, but only if it is the first nation to deploy this technology. The CTIA successfully lobbied for greater access to the electromagnetic spectrum including millimeter waves in addition to more microwave spectrum and limits on fees that localities could collect for "small cell" antenna sites. The CTIA and the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) were also successful in getting legislative and regulatory bodies to adopt industry-written rules which override local policymakers’ ability to control where "small cell" antennas were placed in the public right-of-way. oblivious to the concerns of scientists and medical doctors about the added health risks from exposure to 5G radiation. In reaction to the initial deployment of the million "small cell" antenna sites required to roll out 5G in the U.S., hundreds of community groups have organized in opposition. Many have coalesced under an umbrella organization, Americans for Responsible Technology. In the next few years, this grassroots movement may grow into a powerful political force as more and more people finally become aware of the health risks associated with wireless radiation exposure. The EMR Safety website addresses scientific and policy developments regarding the health risks from exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Since 2013, the website has had almost 1.9 million page views by visitors from over 200 countries which attests to the worldwide concern about the impact of wireless radiation on our health and the health of our environment. During the past year, half of visitors were from outside the United States with the United Kingdom, Canada, India, Australia, Israel, Germany, Greece, Italy and France represented the most. This website provides a curated collection of links to articles on cell phones and other wireless devices and infrastructure. The site summarizes the peer-reviewed research on health risks associated with wireless radiation and provides links to news stories that report on the manufacturing of doubt about these health risks by agencies and scientists with conflicts of interest. The following links were the most popular wireless radiation stories in 2018: Most popular wireless radiation stories in 2018 5G and proliferation of cell towers (including “small cells”) Wireless Technology: Millimeter Wave Health Effects Scientists and Doctors Demand Moratorium on 5G 5G Wireless Technology: Is 5G Harmful to Our Health? 5G Wireless Technology: Cutting Through the Hype Cell Phone Towers are Largest Contributor to Environmental Radiofrequency Radiation National Toxicology Program and Ramazzini cellphone radiation studies National Toxicology Program Finds Cell Phone Radiation Causes Cancer National Toxicology Program: Peer review of cell phone radiation study Cell Phone Radiation Study: Final Reports Ramazzini Institute Cell Phone Radiation Study Replicates NTP Study Recent wireless radiation research Recent Research on Wi-Fi Effects Recent Research on Wireless Radiation and Electromagnetic Effects of Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields: 833 Studies Cellphone health effects research Brain Tumor Rates Are Rising in the US: The Role of Cell Phone & Cordless Phone Use Thyroid Cancer & Mobile Phone Use Scientific Evidence of Harm from Cell Phone Radiation: Two Years of Research Female Infertility & Cell Phone Effect of Mobile Phones on Sperm Quality Harm reduction policies and actions Cell Phone Safety Guidance from the California Public Health Department Cell Phone and Wireless Technology Safety Tips Most popular wireless product stories in 2018 Hybrid & Electric Cars: Electromagnetic Radiation Risks New Apple Watch Reignites Concerns over Cell Phone Radiation AirPods: Are Apple’s New Wireless Earbuds Safe? Specific Absorption Rates for iPhones iPhone 6 SAR: Radiation Levels & Separation Distance iPhone XS and XR: Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) or RF iPhone SE SAR: Radiation Levels & Separation Distance iPhone 8 Models: Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) or RF Exposure iPhones emit more radiation than Samsung Galaxy phones? iPhone X SAR: Specific Absorption Rate or RF Exposure Specific Absorption Rates for Samsung Galaxy phones Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge Specific Absorption Rates (SAR Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) Labels: 2018, 5G, EMF Scientist Appeal, EMR Safety, International Society of Doctors for the Environment, Mark Dowie, Mark Hertsgaard, planetary health, products, SAR, The Guardian, The Nation, year in review MOBI-KIDS: Childhood Brain Tumor Risk & Mobile Pho... Electromagnetic Radiation Safety: 2018 Year in Rev... Overview Articles	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1539
__label__wiki	0.816109	0.816109	Taoiseach to meet Ballymurphy families today 30 January, 2014 - by Gerry Adams TD Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has welcomed the decision by the Taoiseach to meet with the families of the Ballymurphy Massacre. The families will be in Dublin this morning and will be accompanied by Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey, SDLP MLA Alex Attwood and Alliance Party MLA Trevor Lunn. Gerry Adams will meet the delegation after lunch and before their planned meeting with the Taoiseach at Government buildings at 2.30pm. The Ballymurphy Massacre saw 11 local people, including the mother of eight children and a local priest shot and killed by the British Parachute regiment in the immediate aftermath of the introduction of internment on August 9 1971. Speaking this morning in advance of the meeting the Sinn Féin leader commended the “dedication and commitment of the families who have worked tirelessly over many years to get to the truth of the deaths of their loved ones.” He said: “I urge the Taoiseach to endorse the families call for a new initiative which seeks the appointment of an Independent Panel to examine all of the documents relating to the context, circumstances and aftermath of the deaths of their loved ones. “The Panel would investigate the role of the British Government, British Army, and criminal justice agencies such as the RUC, DPP, the Coroner’s Office and the significance of the media; secure the public disclosure of all of the available documents and publish a detailed, comprehensive report.”	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1541
__label__cc	0.666212	0.333788	Our Vision Experiences Partners Contact DONATE Our VisionExperiencesPartnersContact Experiences Matter Our vision with Situation Project is to provide arts-deprived public-school students access and exposure to world-class New York City arts and culture experiences. We deliver at least two experiences to each student every year. We also provide hands-on activities that integrate technology with the arts, deepen student encounters, and inspire tomorrow’s leaders. By the time our students graduate the 8th grade, they will have seen a repertoire of at least six shows through Situation Project. Artist talk-backs, sessions with entertainment professionals, and on-site educational seminars also allow our students to get to know these people as real human beings and ultimately see themselves in these artists. They learn from professionals who made choices, worked hard, and achieved success in ways that they can one day emulate themselves. We now work with three public schools in New York City and, to date, we've created over 18,000 experiences that have enriched these students' lives. We hope this model can serve as inspiration for communities across the country to act and support the students in their own backyard. Overall, we’re passionately working towards providing these students the opportunity to expand their worldview and learn directly from professionals themselves, and we’re engaging our own community to do it. “Partnering with the Situation Project provides access and meaningful experience to students that historically are left out of the Broadway industry. We can talk about it and try to explain Broadway, live theatre, art and everything that comes with it, but without experiencing it, they are just words and concepts that are not real. When students leave us in 8th grade, they are now armed with the ability to make informed decisions about the arts and decide for themselves if this is something they want to pursue professionally, as a hobby/interest, or simply not be involved because it isn’t for them. The Situation Project makes this connection a reality.” - Vincent Gassetto, Principal at MS 343 The Academy of Applied Mathematics and Technology Our VisionExperiencesContactPartnersDonatePrivacy Policy	cc/2019-30/en_head_0011.json.gz/line1542

Subsets and Splits

No community queries yet

The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.